Which countries are in the EEA?
All of the EU countries (Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and the UK) plus Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway.
Swiss nationals have similar rights to those of EEA nationals.
Do I require documentation to be in the UK?
If you are an EEA national you have the right of free movement in the EEA. You can obtain a registration certificate confirming your right of residence as a student. This would be particularly relevant if are married or in a civil partnership with a non-EEA national.
How do I obtain a registration certificate?
The Home Office can issue you with a registration certificate with no charge. They are valid indefinitely. You can apply using form EEA1 although if you are Bulgarian or Romania you will need form BR1.
Can my family join me in the UK?
Your EEA national family members can enter and stay in the UK with you. As a student, if your family are not EEA nationals they have the right to join you in the UK.
How do I obtain permanent residence in the UK?
You can qualify for permanent residence in the UK when you have lawfully been in the UK for five years. However, if you have recently become an EU citizen you will not be able to count any lawful residence in the UK prior to becoming an EU national towards the five year qualifying period.
Am I allowed to work whilst I study in the UK?
Nationals from the following countries are required to register under the Accession State Worker Registration Scheme: Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia. More information on the Accession State Worker Registration Scheme
All other EU nationals can work without any restriction.
Can I claim any state benefits?
Most full-time students are not entitled for the majority of state benefits regardless of nationality although there are some exceptions. The benefits system in the UK is complex so it is advisable to consult an adviser.
This information has been adapted from UKCOSA’s Guidance Note on EEA Students 2007.
