3400 EU nationals in Falkirk district apply to stay after Brexit

Of 3,500 applications dealt with in the district between August 2018 and September 30 2020, 2,340 granted applicants settled status and 1,090 pre-settled status.

Around 70 applications were either refused, withdrawn, or invalid.

The highest number of applications was submitted by residents from Poland (1,480), followed by people from Hungary (330) and Lithuania (300).

There were also around 90 applications from people who are not from the European Economic Area, but qualify for the scheme. Those qualifying include family members of EU citizens living in the UK.

Oxford University’s Migration Observatory and think tank British Future have warned that new immigration rules could hit social care and hospitality businesses in the UK.

European Union nationals wishing to continue living in the UK must apply under the EU Settlement Scheme by the end of June, 2021.

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Those who have lived in the UK for five years and meet the criteria, can receive settled status and remain in the country indefinitely.

Those who have lived in the country for less time can receive pre-settled status, which allows them to remain for a further five years. They can later apply for settled status.

Sunder Katwala, director of British Future, said: "The Government has committed to allowing the NHS to recruit the staff it needs – but has not done the same for social care.

"The most significant impacts are likely to be in social care and hospitality, for roles paying below those salary bands."

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