Liverpool City Council is providing a document verifying and scanning service from next week [Tuesday] that will support EU citizens who wish to continue living and working in the city.
The council is committed to encouraging all its non-UK EU residents to remain in Liverpool. EU citizens can apply for pre-settled or settled status that will protect their rights when the EU settlement scheme opens nationally tomorrow, Saturday 30 March.
Applications must be made online with documents scanned using an app available for Android devices. If people do not own an Android phone, they can also use someone else’s phone for scanning. Documents can also be posted to the Home Office.
However, for peace of mind anyone unable to use the app can choose to have their documents checked and scanned at the city centre One Stop Shop in St Johns Market. Sessions will start on Tuesday 2 April, from 9.45-11.45am and will run weekly on Tuesdays at the same time until further notice. Applicants do not need to make an appointment.
Similar to the Post Office’s Passport Check & Send service, there is a charge for anyone using the scanning service and is £14 per applicant.
Anyone wishing to use the service should not have started their online application before they have their documents scanned.
Only biometric documents can be scanned and applicants should also bring a phone or other mobile device with them that is able to receive texts or emails. They will be sent a code which will enable them to start their application online later on any other device.
The EU settlement scheme is open until 30 June 2021 if the UK leaves the EU with a deal or 31 December 2020 if it doesn’t.
Colleen Martin, Liverpool City Council’s assistant director for supporting communities, said: “We want all EU citizens to continue to live, work and thrive in Liverpool and the wider city region and want all residents to know that they are welcome. We value the wealth of culture, social opportunities and economic benefits that a community built on diversity brings.
“We’re very pleased to be able to offer this service to support people. It will offer peace of mind to people who do not want to post important documents.
“We have a very experienced team and they will do everything they can to support people, but aren’t able to offer advice on how to complete the online application or give immigration advice. If people need further support they should contact the Home Office’s EU Settlement Resolution Centre.”
Follow all of Liverpool City Council’s news at www.liverpoolexpress.co.uk
Twitter @lpoolcouncil
Facebook www.facebook.com/lpoolcouncil
Instagram@lpoolcitycouncil
