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UCL and Brexit

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Current EU students

This page provides practical advice for our current EU students, as well as links to further information.

UCL is a global university through our outlook, people and enduring international partnerships. Our EU staff and students are our first priority in our approach to Brexit, and since the EU referendum result we have been engaging the UK government to protect your rights.

Please also check the Universities UK website for the latest updates.

*NB on implementation period: The UK and EU have now reached a deal for a ‘large part’ of the agreement on the UK’s withdrawal from the EU. The deal covers an implementation period (or ‘transition period’) period, which will run from the day the UK leaves the EU on 29 March 2019 to 31 December 2020.

How will Brexit affect my immigration status?

If you are an EU citizen and you arrived in the UK before the beginning of the implementation period*, (by 29 March 2019), you will be able to apply to live and study in the UK, and once you have been here for five years, you will be able to apply for settled status. You will be able to apply for a temporary residence permit allowing you to complete the five year period. If you do not qualify for settled status you can be granted pre-settled status. Further guidance on applying for settled status can be found on the government website.

For more information see the International Students website.

Will I be able to stay and work in the UK once I have finished my studies?

If you arrive before the end of the implementation period* (before 31 December 2020), you will be able to apply for a temporary residence permit, and once you have been in the UK for 5 years, you can apply for settled status. Both the temporary residence permit and settled status you give you the right to live and work in the UK

For EU citizens arriving after 31 December 2020, the situation is at present unclear. 

Will I have to pay for medical care?

Both the temporary residence permit and settled status give you access to public services, including medical care under the NHS. 

What additional help is available to support the wellbeing of current students?

The resources below are at your disposal if you would like further help and advice in relation to welfare matters.