The deadline for applying to the EU settlement scheme is only 10 weeks away, warns Dorset Council.

Following Brexit, all European citizens must apply by 30 June in order to continue living and working in the UK.

All EU, EEA and Swiss citizens who have lived in the UK since before December 31 2020 must apply for ‘settled’ or ‘pre-settled’ status.

Parents who have applied and already been granted a status should apply on behalf of their children, even if they were born and have lived all their lives in the UK, unless their children are British citizens.

Cllr Peter Wharf, deputy leader of Dorset Council and portfolio holder for Corporate Development and Change said: “We really value the European citizens who live and work here in Dorset and want to make sure they have the information and support they need to remain here legally beyond 30 June.

“Our advice is not to make any assumptions but to actively check whether you and your loved ones need to apply to the scheme. You might need to make an application even if you were born here in the UK.

“The application is done online but you will need to get documents and evidence together and so we are urging people not to leave it to the last minute.

“Anyone needing advice or struggling with their application can contact Citizens Advice BCP who are helping people from across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole as well as the Dorset Council area.”

Kirsty Pemberton from Citizen’s Advice Bournemouth Christchurch Poole said:

“We know that some people may not be sure whether they need to apply, others may find the application process itself a struggle.

“If this applies to you, or to someone you know, don’t hesitate, please get in touch.

“We’re here to help people from across Dorset so that they can be confident they have applied correctly and have done everything they need to do in order to protect their rights.”

If you need advice or support to make your application, contact Citizens Advice BCP and talk to a trained adviser now on 07761 092704, email euss.advice@citizensadvicebcp.org.uk or visit www.citizensadvicebcp.org.uk/home/eu-settlement-scheme