EU Settlement Scheme applications: important message about COVID-19

While there are still 15 months before the deadline of 30 June 2021 for applications to the EU Settlement Scheme, the Council is urging EU citizens who live and work in the borough to apply early as the processing period is being delayed due to the coronavirus lockdown.

Some application routes and support services have temporarily changed however, there is still support available online for residents looking to apply and call-back functions available for those seeking advice over the phone.

Councillor Louise Gittins, Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “In line with the latest Public Health England advice, we have had to temporarily suspend our face-to-face ID document scanning service however the identity stage of applications can still be completed using the ‘EU Exit ID Document’ app.

“For anyone who does not feel confident using a computer or mobile device or does not have access to the internet, there are a number of local organisations across the borough who can provide assistance and additional support is also available over the phone through ‘Assisted Digital’ on the gov.uk website.

“Cheshire, Halton and Warrington Race & Equality Centre (CHAWREC) has also set up a dedicated support line to offer any advice on the scheme or immigration.

“We do expect inevitable delays so it’s important that people don’t put off the submission of their applications and that they get their status now.”

Get help with your online application

• Cheshire, Halton and Warrington Race & Equality Centre (CHAWREC) have set up a telephone line for advice on immigration or the EU Settlement Scheme: 07493 114860 /karen@chawrec.org.uk
• The Settlement Resolution Centre (SRC) will no longer be answering telephone calls but will continue to respond to email enquiries which can be made via the online contact form and can provide a call back function when required.
• GOV.UK - Using Mobile Phone app
• GOV.UK – Assisted digital help online applications
• GOV.UK – Help EU settlement scheme 

For the latest information on the scheme visit

• GOV.UK – Settled status EU citizens families