Asylum Applications: Seeking Protection in the UK
An Asylum Application allows individuals who fear persecution in their home country to seek protection in the UK. If you have a well-founded fear of persecution based on factors such as race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group, you can apply for asylum in the UK to gain refugee status.
In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials, from eligibility to application, so you can confidently navigate the process.
In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials, from eligibility to application, so you can confidently navigate the process.
Eligibility Criteria
You can apply for Asylum in the UK if:
- You are in the UK or at its border and unable to return to your home country due to a well-founded fear of persecution.
- You believe that the authorities in your country cannot or will not protect you.
- The persecution is based on: race, religion, nationality, political opinion, Membership in a particular social group (e.g., LGBTQ+ individuals, ethnic minorities)
Steps in the Asylum Application Process
- 1. Apply for Asylum
- Screening Interview
- Substantive Interview
- Decision
Possible Outcomes of an Asylum Application
Granted Refugee Status
- If your application is successful, you will be granted Refugee Status for 5 years, after which you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). As a refugee, you can:
- Live and work in the UK.
- Access healthcare and education.
- Apply for family members to join you under Family Reunion.
- Humanitarian Protection
- If you are not granted refugee status but still face a real risk of serious harm, you may be granted Humanitarian Protection for 5 years, with similar rights as refugee status.
- Refusal
- If your application is refused, you will need to either:
- Appeal the decision within a given timeframe.
- Voluntarily leave the UK.
- Face deportation if you remain in the UK without permission.
What Support Is Available During the Asylum Process?
Here is a breakdown of the visa fees:
- Asylum Support: Financial assistance, housing, or both if you are destitute.
- Healthcare: Access to free NHS services.
- Education: Children under 18 are entitled to attend school.
What You Cannot Do While Your Application Is Being Processed
While your asylum application is pending, you cannot:
- Work, unless you’ve been waiting for a decision for over 12 months without receiving a final answer.
- Choose your accommodation: If you receive asylum support, you may be housed in temporary or shared accommodation.
Ready to Apply?
Applying for Asylum in the UK can provide protection for those facing serious threats in their home country. The process can be complex and lengthy, but with the right support, you can seek the protection you need.
If you need assistance with your application or have questions about your eligibility, our team is here to help guide you through the process.
If you need assistance with your application or have questions about your eligibility, our team is here to help guide you through the process.
