Asylum

The UK asylum system is strictly controlled, which means the court does not grant refugees asylum status automatically. Meeting the criteria is tough, and the decision-making process can be lengthy. In some cases, it can take years, especially if you’re appealing a refusal decision. That’s why it’s crucial to seek legal advice from the Cartwright King Asylum Lawyers Team.

Currently, UK asylum seekers are prohibited from working in Britain, although immigrant advocacy groups are pushing for the rules to be changed. However, you can apply to work in the UK if:

• You have waited more than 12 months for a decision on your asylum application, or you have been refused asylum but you’ve received no response to further submissions filed more than 12 months ago
• You are not responsible for any delay on a decision over your asylum claim

If you are granted permission to work, you can only take a job that is on the UK’s Tier 2 Skilled Worker Shortage Occupation List. Your right to work is removed if your asylum claim is refused and all appeal options have been exhausted.

Under current UK immigration laws, asylum seekers are prohibited from accessing welfare benefits. However, you are entitled to accommodation – flat, house, hostel or bed and breakfast. If accommodation cannot be found, you are likely to be held in an immigration detention centre.

You do not have the right to choose where you live. 

Additionally, you will be given a weekly allowance for each person in your household to buy food, clothing and toiletries.

If you’re refused asylum and you’ve exhausted all appeal options, you can apply for short-term support – including housing and cash allowances.