Irish citizens residing in the UK will not be required to apply for the EU Settlement Scheme, the government has confirmed, due to the protections offered by the Common Travel Area (CTA) agreement.
The CTA, a long-standing arrangement between the UK and Ireland, ensures that Irish nationals can live, work, and access public services in the UK without needing to apply for settled status. This exemption applies even after Brexit, providing clarity for thousands of Irish citizens concerned about their residency rights.
What Is the Common Travel Area?
The CTA dates back to the 1920s and guarantees free movement and reciprocal rights between the UK and Ireland. Unlike other EU nationals, Irish citizens do not need to prove their immigration status under the EU Settlement Scheme, which was introduced after Brexit to protect the rights of European residents in the UK.
Why Does This Matter Now?
With the deadline for the EU Settlement Scheme now passed, concerns had been raised about whether Irish citizens needed to apply. The UK government has now clarified that Irish nationals are automatically covered by the CTA, removing any uncertainty.
Key points:
- Irish citizens do not need to apply for settled or pre-settled status.
- They retain the right to live, work, and access benefits and healthcare in the UK.
- The CTA ensures these rights are protected indefinitely.
What About Other EU Nationals?
While Irish citizens are exempt, other EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals must have applied to the EU Settlement Scheme by the deadline to secure their residency rights. Those who missed the cutoff may still apply if they can provide a valid reason for the delay.
The exemption for Irish citizens highlights the unique relationship between the UK and Ireland, which remains unaffected by Brexit.
