1. Introduction

2. Who qualifies for asylum?

3. How do I apply for asylum?

4. What happens when I apply?

5. What can I live on while I am waiting?

6. What happens while I´m waiting?

7. Where can I get help with my claim?

8. What will be the outcome of my claim?

9. What if my claim is refused?

10. What happens if my appeals fail?

Remember that most asylum applications in the UK are refused, though some of these are successful at appeal. If you are refused and you lose an appeal, you will be expected to leave the country, unless you are allowed to stay here for other reasons (for example, because you have family in the UK).

The immigration authorities may try to remove you forcibly if you don't go voluntarily. If you haven't already got a passport, they may give you a notice telling you to co-operate with attempts to get travel documents for you. If you do not, you may be prosecuted. Even if you are not prosecuted, you may be detained, possibly in prison.

Voluntary return
If things are getting better in your country, you may be able to get financial help to return there. Some people can also get money to help them resettle in their home country. You should ask your legal adviser or one-stop service for information about these schemes.

11. Further help

12. About this leaflet

The leaflets in this series give you an outline of your legal rights. They are not a complete guide to the law and are not intended to be a guide to how the law will apply to you or any specific situation. The leaflets are regularly updated but the law and the way the government deals with asylum seekers often change, so information may be incorrect or out of date. If you have a problem, you will need to get more information or personal advice to work out the best way to solve it. See 'Further help' for sources of information and advice.

This leaflet was written in association with the Immigration Law Practitioners Association and Mick Chatwin, a barrister and solicitor specialising in immigration law.

Leaflet version: February 2008

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