The UK has recently launched the UK/European Applicant Transfer Scheme (UEATS), a pilot initiative created with France as part of wider efforts to address irregular Channel crossings. The scheme offers a limited number of people in France a lawful route to transfer to the UK, but it comes with strict eligibility rules, capped places, and significant restrictions once granted. Below, we break down how the process works, who can apply, and the key challenges applicants should be aware of.
UK / European Applicant Transfer Scheme: What You Need to Know
- The UK has introduced a new pilot route — the UK/European Applicant Transfer Scheme (UEATS) — in partnership with France.
- The aim: to transfer a limited number of people from France to the UK as an alternative to dangerous Channel crossings.
Key Features & Eligibility
- Two-stage process
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Applicants must submit during a designated application window.
- Entry Clearance: If the EOI is selected, the Home Office submits the visa/clearance application on the applicant’s behalf.
- Location & timing constraints
• Applicants must be physically in France when submitting the EOI.
• EOI applications submitted outside the open window will be rejected as invalid. - Eligibility rules
• Applicants generally must be aged 18 or over, unless applying as part of a family group with a parent over 18.
• Applicants must not already hold immigration status in France or have obtained protection elsewhere.
• Applicants must not be nationals with free-movement rights as family members of EEA citizens. - Caps & prioritisation
• The number of people transferred is tied to the number removed from the UK under an anti-Channel crossings scheme (“one-in, one-out”).
• Applicants are selected using prioritisation stages:
– “High-grant / high-volume” nationalities
– Connection to the UK (e.g. prior lawful stay)
– Random selection among remaining eligible EOIs
What Happens After Selection
- If selected, you’ll be invited to provide biometrics (at a Visa Application Centre).
- Entry clearance granted under UEATS is valid up to 3 months.
- Conditions after arrival:
• No access to public funds
• No work
• No study - The permission can be cancelled if you fail to travel when required, fail to collect your visa, or cease to meet the scheme’s requirements.
Risks, Critiques & Practical Advice
- Many asylum seekers do not hold passports or formal identity documents, which may bar them from applying.
- The selection cap means even valid EOIs may never be considered if the cap is met.
- There is no right of appeal or administrative review against refusal under this scheme (though judicial review may still be possible).
- Legal support is critical: errors or missing evidence at EOI stage cannot be corrected later.