Your Rights

Refugees and asylum seekers coming to the UK have a number of rights that they may or may not be aware of. We have outlined some of these below. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Asylum-seekers

  • You should make an asylum claim as soon as possible when you realise you have a fear of returning to your country

  • You should seek legal advice as soon as possible, even if you have a valid visa to be in UK

  • Free advice and representation are available for asylum claims. This is often referred to as “Legal Aid” or public funding.

  • You are entitled to accommodation and limited financial support whilst your asylum claim is being decided. This is often referred to as “NASS support.”

  • If your asylum claim takes more than 12 months to be decided, you can ask for permission to work

Refugees

  • You can apply for Welfare benefits

  • You can apply for a Travel Document

  • Your spouse and children under 18 can join you in the UK, if certain requirements are met

  • You can apply for Refugee Settlement when your refugee status expires

Contact us for more information

Call 020 8547 0115 or write to admin@refugeeactionkingston.org.uk.