These FAQs are intended to provide a balanced overview of the asylum process and the rights and responsibilities of asylum seekers while awaiting a decision from the Home Office.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Asylum seekers are people waiting for a decision on a protection claim.
- They are legally allowed to remain in the UK while their claim is considered.
- Most cannot work while awaiting a decision.
- They may receive accommodation and basic financial support if they would otherwise be destitute.
- Eligible asylum seekers receive accommodation and basic financial support while awaiting a decision. Most receive £49.18 per person per week on an ASPEN card to cover essential living expenses.
- They can access healthcare and children can attend school.
- They must comply with UK laws and engage with the asylum process.
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An asylum seeker is a person who has asked the UK Government for protection because they are afraid of persecution, violence, or serious harm in their home country. They remain an asylum seeker until the Home Office has made a decision on their claim.
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People may claim asylum because they fear persecution due to factors such as their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership of a particular social group. Some may also be at risk of serious harm if returned to their country.
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The Home Office assesses each claim through a process that usually includes registration, interviews, evidence gathering, and a formal decision. During this period, the applicant is legally entitled to remain in the UK while their claim is considered.
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Generally, no. A person with an outstanding asylum claim cannot normally be returned to their country of origin until the Home Office has made a decision on their case.
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Some asylum seekers may receive accommodation if they would otherwise be homeless or unable to support themselves. Accommodation is provided by the Home Office and may include shared housing, hotels, or other temporary accommodation depending on availability and need.
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Some asylum seekers who cannot meet their basic living needs may be eligible for financial support from the Home Office while their claim is being considered. This support is intended to cover essential living expenses.
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Asylum seekers who are eligible for Home Office support and do not have enough money to support themselves may receive a weekly allowance loaded onto an ASPEN card, which can be used in shops and cash machines.
Current rates are:
- £49.18 per week for each person in the household if they are responsible for buying and preparing their own food.
- £9.95 per week for each person if accommodation provides all meals (for example, some full-board accommodation).
- Additional payments are available for pregnant women and young children:
- £5.25 per week for a pregnant mother.
- £9.50 per week for a baby under 1 year old.
- £5.25 per week for a child aged 1 to 3 years.
This support is intended to cover essential items such as food, clothing, toiletries, travel, communication costs, and other basic daily living needs.
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Most asylum seekers are not permitted to work while their application is being considered. In limited circumstances, they may apply for permission to work if they have been waiting for a decision for more than 12 months and the delay is not their responsibility.
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Yes. Asylum seekers can volunteer while waiting for a decision on their claim. Volunteering allows people to contribute to their communities, gain experience, and develop skills.
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Yes. People seeking asylum can access NHS healthcare services while their claim is being considered. This includes registering with a GP and accessing necessary medical treatment.
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Yes. Children have the right to access education while their family's asylum claim is being processed. School attendance is expected in the same way as for other children living in the UK.
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Yes. Most asylum seekers are not detained and are free to live in their accommodation and move around their local community while their claim is being considered.
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Yes. They must cooperate with the Home Office, attend appointments and interviews, provide truthful information, keep their details up to date, and obey UK laws.
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If the Home Office grants refugee status or another form of protection, the individual can usually remain in the UK, work, study, and access benefits and public services in line with their immigration status.
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If a claim is refused, the individual may have the right to challenge the decision or submit further evidence, depending on their circumstances. If all legal options are exhausted, they may be required to leave the UK.
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The asylum system exists to provide protection to people who may be at risk of persecution or serious harm. Understanding the process helps ensure public discussions are informed by facts and legal requirements rather than misconceptions.