EUROPEAN citizens living in Scotland who are affected by immigration changes due to Brexit will be able to seek support from a new £800,000 scheme.

Rule changes coming into force in March mean EU citizens and their family members will be required to apply to secure their rights through an online system.

The Scottish Government is introducing a new service, through Citizens Advice, to help EU nationals with their immigration status following the UK’s expected exit from the European Union.

It will begin increasing capacity to offer more advice and support, and a solicitor-led helpline will also be set up for difficult and complex cases. Visiting Leith Citizens Advice Bureau in Edinburgh on International Migrants Day, Migration Minister Ben Macpherson said: “The Scottish Government is absolutely committed to doing all it can to speak up for and support EU citizens at this uncertain and anxious time.

“By providing additional help, as well as being accessible at Citizens Advice Bureaux across Scotland, our service will have a particular focus on vulnerable and hard to reach groups who may find it difficult, or are unable or unwilling, to apply online without assistance, including people living in remote and rural areas.

“The Citizens Advice network is highly trusted and I am delighted to be partnering with them on this service. I hope that providing this additional service will help to ensure that EU citizens in Scotland – who are relatives, friends, neighbours and colleagues – feel welcome, supported and valued during this uncertain time.”

Commenting on the controversial fee to apply to be recognised as a “settled” UK citizen of £65 for people 16 or over or £32.50 for under 16s, Macpherson added: “The Scottish Government is clear that EU citizens should not be being asked to apply to retain the rights that they already have.”