Minister for Europe Jenny Gilruth (pictured) has urged the UK Government to extend the deadline for the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS).
She expressed concern that many people have still not applied for the scheme – and more time is needed so eligible citizens can avoid life-changing consequences.
Ms Gilruth said:
“The risks for EU citizens who do not apply to the EUSS by the 30 June deadline will be life changing – they won’t be able to work, study, claim benefits, drive a car or open a bank account.
“In short, their lives will be turned upside down.
“We know that thousands of eligible fellow citizens living in this country have yet to apply – I call on the UK Government to therefore extend that 30 June deadline.
“In my view, this is a simple and practical way of avoiding another Windrush scandal.”
The Minister added:
“The Scottish Government stands ready to do all we can to help citizens who do not apply, and my message to everyone from the EU who lives and works here remains this: Scotland is your home, you are our family, and we want you to stay here with us.
“But until the UK Government extends the deadline for their EU Settlement Scheme I must, sadly, reiterate that it remains critical that all EU citizens complete an application by 30 June 2021.
“Scotland is a better place because you are living here – please apply.
“And please stay with us.”
