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EU Settlement Scheme: Can You Join Your Family Member in the UK?

June 11th, 2026

If you have a family member living in the UK with settled status or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS), you may be able to join them. Although the UK left the European Union, this route remains available for certain family members. 

Check Whether You Qualify 

Before applying, you should make sure that your family member: 

  • Has settled status or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme. 

  • Was generally living in the UK by 31 December 2020. 

You may be eligible to apply as a joining family member if you are: 

  • The spouse or civil partner of an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen. 

  • An unmarried partner in a durable relationship. 

  • A child or grandchild under the age of 21. 

  • A dependent child or grandchild aged 21 or over. 

  • A dependent parent or grandparent. 

Make Sure Your Relationship Is Eligible 

In most cases, you must show that your family relationship existed before 31 December 2020, which marked the end of the Brexit transition period. 

What Happens If Your Application Is Successful? 

If your application is approved, you may be able to: 

  • Live in the UK with your family member. 

  • Work without needing a separate work visa. 

  • Study in the UK. 

  • Access NHS healthcare, subject to the same rules that apply to other UK residents. 

  • Continue building your life in the UK and, where eligible, qualify for settled status in the future. 

This information is intended as a general guide only and should not be treated as legal advice. 

  

Useful Resources: 

Apply to the EU Settlement Scheme (settled and pre-settled status): Applying as the family member of someone from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein - GOV.UK 

EU Settlement Scheme: caseworker guidance - GOV.UK 

If you need advice or want to check your eligibility, our helplines are available Monday to Wednesday, 10 am to 4 pm:  

PL/LT/EN: 07521857415  

RO/EN: 07730021986  

UA/RU/EN: 07718612218  

This is in line with the information available as of 11/06/2026.