Changes to EEA family permits

The EU Free Movement of Persons Directive (FMOP) has been enacted into UK law from 30 April 2006. EEA family permit applications will be dealt with differently due to the Immigration (European Economic Area) Regulations 2006.

From 30 April 2006,family members of EEA nationals will be allowed an initial period of residence of three months. There is no requirement for the EEA national to be exercising treaty rights during this period. For an extended right of residence, the EEA national will need to exercise treaty rights. Certain family members of EEA students will have the right of residence after three months.

There are also new rights and restrictions for extended family members and partners of EEA nationals who are unmarried but in a durable relationship. There are also changes to the rights and restrictions of family members whose applications are based on lawful residence in an EEA member state.

Finally, Civil Partners of EEA nationals can now apply for EEA family permits.