You’ll usually get settled status if you’ve:
- · started living in the UK by 31 December 2020 (or by the date the UK leaves the EU without a deal)
- · lived in the UK for a continuous 5-year period (known as ‘continuous residence’)
Five years’ continuous residence means that for 5 years in a row you’ve been in the UK, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man for at least 6 months in any 12 month period. The exceptions are:
- · one period of up to 12 months for an important reason (for example, childbirth, serious illness, study, vocational training or an overseas work posting)
- · compulsory military service of any length
- · time you spent abroad as a Crown servant, or as the family member of a Crown servant
- · time you spent abroad in the armed forces, or as the family member of someone in the armed forces
You can stay in the UK as long as you like if you get settled status. You’ll also be able to apply for British citizenship if you’re eligible.