Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what documentation officials in Job Centres have been instructed to accept as proof of (a) settled status and (b) pre-settled status for EU nationals applying for social security benefits after 31 October 2019.

We have been clear that the rights of EU nationals with settled and pre-settled status who apply for social security benefits after 31 October 2019 will be protected.

DWP recognises leave granted under the EU settlement scheme. EU nationals who claim social security benefits can present their notification of settled or pre-settled status in support of their claim. DWP procedures require staff to verify evidence of immigration status through the Habitual Residence Test Process. Mechanisms are in place between DWP and the Home Office to verify settled status notifications.

EU nationals who are granted settled status and are habitually resident in the UK are eligible to access income-related benefits.

EU nationals who are granted pre-settled status and are exercising an EU qualifying right to reside e.g. worker or self-employed status are eligible to access income-related benefits.