EU Settlement Scheme: current estimated processing times for applications
Updated 29 September 2025
© Crown copyright 2025
This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: psi@nationalarchives.gov.uk.
Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.
This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/eu-settlement-scheme-application-processing-times/eu-settlement-scheme-pilot-current-expected-processing-times-for-applications
The processing time for your application depends on:
- how much information you provide in your application
- whether UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) needs to do further checks
These processing times are an indication of how long it will take to get a decision on an application to the EU Settlement Scheme based on current performance.
Estimated processing times
It may take one month to decide applications where UKVI does not need to ask for more information or do further checks.
It may take 3 months to decide applications where:
- UKVI needs more information - for example, evidence about your residence in the UK
- you are not a citizen of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, and you are applying based on a relationship you have not relied on in a previous application to UKVI
- UKVI is experiencing an increase in demand
It may take 6 months to decide applications where:
- the information you provided is not accurate or needs to be checked more closely
- you are applying as a child 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 need to attend an interview
When your 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, the processing time starts when UKVI gets your identity document.
If you need to provide fingerprints as part of your application, the processing time starts when UKVI gets your fingerprint scans.
If you need to give more information or evidence
UKVI will contact you by email or letter if you need to give more information or evidence. This can happen more than once before you get a decision.
Check your inbox regularly. If your contact details change, update your details in your UKVI account.
How you will get your decision
You will get your decision by email.
The email will be sent to the email address linked to your UKVI account. If you no longer have access to this email address, you can update your details in your UKVI account.
Check your junk or spam folder if you are expecting a decision.
You can also check if you have got a decision by viewing your eVisa.
You do not need to contact UKVI after you apply.