Nearly two dozen EU citizens turned down to stay in Hartlepool

Home Office data published for the first time, shows around 20 people who applied to continue living in the area by the September 30 deadline had their application rejected.

The figures show that, since applications opened, 1,170 EU nationals in Hartlepool applied to continue living in the UK – with 1,110 getting a decision by the end of September.

Of them, 720 (65%) received settled status and 340 (31%) pre-settled status.

People who have lived in the UK for five years, and meet the criteria, received settled status and can remain in the country indefinitely.

Those who have lived in the country for less time received pre-settled status, which allows them to remain for a further five years and later re-apply for settled status.

The highest number of applications came from citizens of Poland (640), Romania (70) and Germany (50).

Though the scheme officially closed on June 30, EU citizens can still apply.

Around 10 applications were submitted after the deadline in Hartlepool.

The Home Office said people with a pending application, are protected while the outcome of their application is unknown.

A spokeswoman said the EU Settlement Scheme has been an "overwhelming success" with 6.3 million applications received and 5.5 million people being granted permission to stay.

She added: “Individuals who have been refused can apply for an administrative review or appeal.

“We have published guidance on reasonable grounds for making a late application and take a flexible and pragmatic approach to considering them.”