UK's Post-Brexit Settlement Scheme for EU Citizens Unlawful, London Court Rules

The British government's post-Brexit settlement scheme for EU citizens is unlawful, London's High Court ruled on Wednesday.

The Independent Monitoring Authority, a body funded by the government to oversee citizens' rights, took the action against the Home Office, arguing Britain is breaching its withdrawal agreement with the European Union by requiring EU citizens to reapply for the right to live and work in the United Kingdom, Reuters reported.

The IMA's lawyers argued at a hearing last month that the scheme unlawfully requires EU citizens to make a second application after being allowed to remain in the UK or lose their rights of residence.

EU citizens and their family members who had not established a right of permanent residence before the end of 2020 can be granted limited leave to enter and remain in the UK for five years, known as "pre-settled status".