Win! Changes to absences for pre-settled status enable more EU citizens to continue living in the UK
On 24th June 2025, the government announced changes to the immigration rules which will enable more EU citizens and family members with pre-settled status to be eligible for indefinite leave to remain (settled status) and continue to live in the UK.
People with pre-settled status will qualify for settled status when they’ve been resident in the UK for at least 30 months (2.5 years) in total in the most recent 60 month period (5 years).
Changes will apply from 16th July and will apply to the over 1.6m people with pre-settled status in the UK.
Previous rules put at risk the rights of people who were absent from the country for more than six months in any 12 month period.
Andreea Dumitrache, CEO of the3million, said:
“We are delighted that the government has taken a pragmatic approach, which should offer peace of mind to many of the 1.6m people with pre-settled status who have made their lives in the UK. We’ve been advocating for a compassionate approach which takes into account the diverse life circumstances that led to people being away from the UK for more than six months. It’s heartening to see the government provide the security that people need to continue living here - this is our home.”
Patricia is a Portuguese citizen who moved to the UK nearly nine years ago. She’s built a successful career in science and engineering but has been facing uncertainty over her pre-settled status due to absences over the last few years. Patricia had to return to Portugal twice to care for her mother, who was battling cancer, including a visit during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Despite these difficult and understandable challenges, she feared these absences could cost her the right to remain in the UK.
“I’ve built my life here, contributed to society and my community, so changes announced by the government give me hope. It’s a step toward stability and peace of mind, after so much uncertainty.”
A huge well done to all of you who spoke up on this issue! We’ve been raising the alarm for years, advocating for a compassionate approach together with other organisations and many of you on the ground. We’re relieved, as this will mean so many in our communities will be able to continue to live in the UK without fear and threats to our rights.
