EU Settlement Scheme: current estimated processing times for applications
Updated 4 August 2023
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These processing times are an indication of how long it will take to receive your decision on an application to the EU Settlement Scheme based on current performance.
Expected processing times
You do not need to contact us once you have applied. We will contact you if we need any further information. There’s no change to your status in the UK while your application is processed.
It may take up to a month for complete applications to be processed, if no further information is required, but you may receive a decision more quickly.
Your application is likely to take longer than a month to process if:
- we need to request additional information from you, for example evidence relating to your residence in the UK
- you are applying as a minor and your application is not linked to an adult
- your supporting documents need to be verified
- you submit a paper application - for example, if your application is based on a derivative right to reside in the UK
- you have a relevant criminal record
- you are a non-EEA or non-Swiss citizen and are applying based on a relationship you have not relied on in a previous application to the Home Office
When your application’s processing time starts
If you apply using the EU Exit: ID Document Check app, the processing time starts when you submit your online application.
If you post your identity document to us, the processing time starts when we receive your identity document.
If you need to provide fingerprint biometrics as part of your application, the processing time starts once we have received your fingerprint scans.