The European Union (EU) on Monday (February 21) criticized the United Kingdom’s management of EU citizens’ residency after the Brexit. European Commission Vice President Marosh Sefkovic warns London “Consider the Next Steps”.

The UK introduced its Settlement Scheme (EUS) for EU citizens residing in the UK in 2018, and has since processed more than 5.5 million applications, far more than initially expected.

However, while approximately 57% of applicants have obtained permanent residency status in the UK, 41% have obtained former resident status, which only allows for a five-year residency.

The UK Government’s position is that citizens who do not apply for permanent residency before their former residency status expires will automatically lose their right to residency, which also gives them access to social benefits.

In December, the Independent Citizens’ Rights Agreement Monitoring Authority (IMA) began judicial review proceedings against the Home Office for alleged misconduct.

“I regret the UK’s position on these two issues and will consider the next steps.”Mr Sefkovic said after a meeting of the Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement that allowed the United Kingdom to leave the European Union.

“We are talking about millions of people, their livelihoods, their families and their personal destiny.He added.

It is unknown at this time what he will do after leaving the post.

The Joint Committee also focused on the status of discussions on the Protocol in Northern Ireland, which Mr. Sefkovic described. “Not developed or advanced”.

EU and UK officials say some progress has been made to reduce the burden of customs formalities for businesses in Northern Ireland.

The EU believes the data fields in customs declarations can be reduced from 80 to 30, Mr Sefkovic said in the commission’s recommendations. “Offers remarkable simplicity and great lasting impact on the ground”.

The UK believes prices should be higher, and traders should only use customs codes that describe goods at a high level.

In a joint statement, Mr Sefkovic and UK Secretary of State Miss Lisztruss said: “Both parties are committed to finding lasting solutions to the problems that exist in the context of the Protocol and to find lasting solutions in the interests of citizens, businesses and the stability of Northern Ireland. ⁇

There is currently no Prime Minister in Northern Ireland following the resignation of Paul Givan of the Democratic Unionist Party last month in protest of protocol status. The Northern Ireland campaign will begin in mid-March, ahead of the Northern Ireland Assembly elections in May.