EU citizens living and working in East Sussex can now use county register offices to check their identity documentation as part of a free scheme enabling them to stay in the UK after Brexit.
The Government’s EU Settlement Scheme requires EU citizens and those from Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland to sign up to continue living in the country after June 30, 2021.
While people can complete the process using a mobile phone app, this is currently only available on Android devices, with an iPhone app not due to be launched until the end of the year.
The service, running at Eastbourne, Hastings, Lewes and Crowborough register offices, enables residents to complete the process without having to send off their documents.
Nick Skelton, East Sussex County Council assistant director of communities, said: “Providing this service in register offices offers an easy, convenient way for EU nationals to register for the scheme.
“They will be able to use a device in the register office to scan their documents and submit a photograph of themselves, while our staff will be on hand to offer advice and support.
“We hope this service, which is free to anyone who lives or works in East Sussex, will offer a convenient way for people to sign up and ensure they can continue to live in the UK after June 2021.”
People wishing to use the service must bring in a current, valid, biometric passport or a valid biometric residence permit for family members of an EU, European Economic Area (EEA) or Swiss Citizen.
They will also need to bring a mobile phone or other device that can receive text messages or emails, along with proof of their residence or employment in East Sussex.
Irish citizens, residents who already have indefinite leave to remain in the UK, people who work here but live abroad and those who are exempt from immigration control – such as diplomatic staff – don’t need to apply.
East Sussex is one of only 41 UK local authorities – and the only one in Sussex or Kent – to offer the service, which is also being offered to people who live and work outside the county – including in Brighton & Hove – for a £14 fee.
People can drop in to Eastbourne, Hastings or Lewes register offices from 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday or Crowborough from 9am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 4pm Monday to Friday.
More information about the service is available online at www.eastsussex.gov.uk/community/registration/britishcitizenship/euss/ or by calling the East Sussex Registration Service on 0345 6080198 or emailing registrar@eastsussex.gov.uk
Information about the EU Settlement Scheme is available at www.gov.uk/eusettlementscheme