Only 4,000 of apossible25,000 EU citizens living and working in Cardiff have so far applied for settled or pre-settled status ahead of the UK's possible Brexit on October 31.

According to the latest Home Office figures some one million people UK-Wide have applied to theEU Settlement Schemewhich was set up to make it straightforward for EU citizens and their family members to guarantee their rights after the UK leaves the EU.

To apply EU citizensonly need to complete 3 key steps - prove their identity, show that they live in the UK, and declare any criminal convictions.

Cardiff Council Leader, Cllr Huw Thomas, said: "European nationals living in Cardiff contribute much to the rich fabric of our city, and we will continue to welcome those who come to live, work and study here in the Welsh Capital.

"A key priority for the city in the coming months will be ensuring that EU nationals, who have made Cardiff their home, secure the immigration status they need to remain in the city in the years to come.

"To help them do this a series of information sessions are now being held in the city where people will be able to get the answers they need about the EU Settlement Scheme and its application process. Participants will be also able speak with local organisations and find out how to access specific advice and support in Cardiff."

EU Settlement Scheme Information sessions will be held in the city at the following venues:

• Grangetown Hub, Thursday, August 29, 6pm - 8pm;
• Cardiff Central Library,Saturday, September 21, noon - 2pm;
• YMCA, Plasnewydd Community Hall, Wednesday, October 2, 5.30pm. - 6.30pm.

More details are available on Cardiff Council'sEU Settlement Scheme Info Hub.

The Info Hub was created to raise awareness of the scheme and is being updated as further information regarding support and advice becomes available. You can access it herehttps://www.cardiff.gov.uk/ENG/resident/EU-settlement-scheme/EU-settlement-scheme-application-help/Pages/default.aspx

Home Office figures show that so far UK-wide the highest number of applications have come from Polish, Romanian and Italian citizens.

Minister of State for the Home Office Brandon Lewissaid:"EU citizens have made incredible contributions to our country - which is why I'm so pleased that over one million people have so far been granted status, enshrining their rights in law."

As well as a dedicated Settlement Resolution Centre, providing phone and email support to people applying, the Home Office has awarded up to £9 million in funding to 57 charities and community organisations to help EU citizens apply to the EU Settlement Scheme.

The Home Office has 1500 staff working on the Scheme, including a team of people running a dedicated, seven-days a week phone service- The EU Settlement Resolution Centre.

For those who do not have the appropriate access, skills or confidence to complete the online form - they have been able to visit one of 200 Assisted Digital locations across the UK.