Now that the U.K. has left the European Union (EU), any workers who are from the EU who wish to remain working in the U.K. (and Scotland) are required to apply for “settled status”. Getting “settled status” will allow them to continue living, working and studying in the U.K. and will also ensure they can access the benefits of U.K. resident status (e.g. using the NHS and other public services and being able to access a pension).

To gain “settled status”, the person applying must have been resident in the U.K. for at least the last 5 years. If they have not been in the U.K. for at least 5 years, they can still apply for “pre-settled status” however this will only allow them to continue working in the U.K. for another 5 years, after which they should make application for “settled status”.

If you employ non-U.K. nationals, you should encourage them to seek advice on applying for “pre-settled status” or “settled status” to ensure they can continue living, working and studying in Scotland.

The U.K. Government has also developed an Employer Toolkit to help you discuss and support non-U.K. workers affected by the U.K. leaving the European Union. You can access the Government toolkit by clicking here.

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