The UK is considered to be one of the safest and accepting countries in the world, which is why it is a popular destination for migrants to claim asylum to seek refuge from their home countries where there is a genuine fear for their life and safety. There are a number of reasons a person can use to claim asylum in the UK and it is important for a successful asylum claim to come across as credible. Our Immigration Solicitors in London have experience in asylum cases by Applicants from a number of different countries and for varying reasons. For anyone who needs expert assistance and advice in registering an asylum claim and preparing for the substantial interview, please contact our immigration team to arrange a confidential consultation with our solicitor.
What reasons can I claim Asylum in the UK?
An Applicant can successfully claim asylum in the UK if they can satisfy all of the 3 following requirements:
- Demonstrate that there is a genuine, well-founded fear of persecution in their home country;
- Demonstrate that they are unable to get protection from the authorities in their home country; and
- Demonstrate that internal relocation in their home country is not possible.
Persecution as mentioned in the first point above may be on the basis of race, religion, nationality, political opinion or social or cultural factors including gender identity and sexual orientation or being a member of a particular social group.
How can I claim asylum in UK?
There are two ways you can claim asylum in the UK. Firstly, Applicants can claim asylum as soon as they arrive in the UK (i.e. at the airport). Another way to claim asylum if the Applicant is already in the UK is to contact the asylum intake unit by phone. Following this, the Applicant will then be asked to attend an asylum screening where they will be asked basic questions about themselves and why they are claiming asylum. After the screening, the claim will be assigned to a case worker and the Applicant will be given a date for the substantive asylum interview. Recently the Home Office abandoned its 6 month processing time and due to Covid-19 there have been further delays, therefore the wait for a substantial interview and decision on an asylum claim is currently quite excessive.
It is essential for successful UK asylum claims that the Applicant comes across as credible. Claims which aren’t credible will be refused. Whilst there is usually a right of appeal for unsuccessful claims, if the claim is still not presented as credible during the hearing, the Judge will uphold the Home Office decision and refuse the appeal and claim.
How long can asylum seekers stay in the UK?
Successful Asylum seekers will be granted 5 years leave to remain in the UK as a refugee. 28 days before the expiry of that 5 year visa, Applicants may then be eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain (“ILR”). This means they will be a settled person in the UK and therefore free from visa restrictions. Applicants may then also be able to apply for British citizenship after 12 months.
Individuals who do not qualify for asylum but are given permission to stay on the basis of humanitarian protection will also be given 5 years leave to remain in the UK. As with individuals with refugee leave, they can then apply for ILR and then citizenship if they meet all of the requirements.
What are asylum seekers entitled to in the UK?
Asylum seekers may be entitled to receive asylum support whilst their asylum claim is pending and they have no money and means to house and support themselves during this time. This starts from the asylum screening if the Applicant is eligible. Support includes housing for the Applicant and any dependent family members, and they may be housed together anywhere in the UK; they do not get a choice. Asylum support also includes giving each member of the household £37.75 per week to help pay for things like food, clothing and toiletries.
Can asylum seekers use the NHS?
Yes, asylum seekers and their dependent children may be entitled to free NHS care whilst their asylum claim is pending. Applicants who are entitled to asylum support can contact NHS Help for assistance in getting medicine prescriptions, dental care and optician services. Children will also be able to attend a free state school.
Using our Immigration Solicitors in London to claim Asylum in the UK
Legal representatives, such as our specialist immigration and visa law firm, are qualified to advise you on immigration law and your immigration status. It is possible to instruct an immigration and visa legal representative to claim Asylum in the UK.
Caseworkers at the Home Office are trained to reject applications which are improperly prepared, for example by failing to provide the correct supporting evidence. In order to ensure your application succeeds, all necessary documents must be provided.
This can be a significant administrative task and you will need to submit the correct documentary evidence. The UK Immigration Rules are complex and a legal representative can help ensure that your Asylum application meets the Immigration Rules.
Successfully claim Asylum in the UK with our Immigration Solicitors in London
Our team of solicitors and barristers are specialist immigration lawyers who act in your best interest. We offer a client-tailored approach from the outset. From the very first meeting, we will be able to advise you in respect of your immigration status and the merit of your Asylum Claim before your matter even reaches the Home Office UK Visa & Immigration department. We can assist you with the preparation of your Asylum Claim and ensure that you meet all the requirements of the relevant rules.
Our offices are based in the legal epicentre of London, just across the road from the Royal Courts of Justice in order to ensure we get the best results for our clients. We are minutes away from the Immigration and Asylum Tribunal, the Royal Courts of Justice and other central London courts.
Preparation is the key to successful immigration applications. Our UK immigration and visa solicitors are here to guide you through the complex immigration rules and requirements. If you wish to meet one of our lawyers, please call our Immigration Team so we can assess your case and arrange your legal consultation.
Contact our London immigration solicitors on 02030110276 or complete our contact form.