Introduction to Asylum Seekers

An asylum seeker is an individual who has fled their home country due to persecution based on various factors such as race, religion, nationality, social group, gender, sexuality, or political opinion. Under the United Nations Refugee Convention, these individuals seek recognition as refugees and protection in a new country. The asylum process in the UK involves navigating complex legal frameworks and understanding the rights and benefits available to those who qualify.

What Is an Asylum Seeker?

To be classified as an asylum seeker in the UK, a person must meet certain criteria:

• They must have fled their country due to a well-founded fear of persecution.
• They cannot safely return to any part of their home country.
• They must be physically present in the UK to apply for asylum.

It’s important to note that asylum seekers are not required to claim asylum in the first country they arrive in. They have the right to seek refuge in the UK if they face persecution elsewhere.

The Asylum Process in the UK

How to Claim Asylum

To claim asylum in the UK, individuals must be present in the country. They cannot apply from abroad, and there are no specific visas that allow someone to enter the UK solely for the purpose of seeking asylum. This creates significant barriers for many individuals fleeing persecution.

Alternative Routes to Asylum

While claiming asylum directly from the UK is the most common method, there are a few alternative options:

• Resettlement Programs: These are usually targeted at specific groups, such as families of recognized refugees or individuals in refugee camps.
• Humanitarian Routes: Occasionally, the UK government opens humanitarian routes for specific nationalities, as seen with Ukrainian, Afghan, and Syrian refugees.

Benefits Available to Asylum Seekers

Accommodation and Financial Support

Asylum seekers awaiting a decision on their claim are provided with accommodation. However, they do not have the liberty to choose where they live. The financial support they receive includes:

• A cash allowance of £49.18 per week for essentials such as food, clothing, and toiletries.
• If meals are provided in the accommodation, this allowance decreases to £8.86 per week.

Restrictions on Employment

Generally, asylum seekers are prohibited from working in the UK. However, there is an exception whereby they can apply for permission to work if they have been awaiting a decision for over a year and are not responsible for the delay. Even then, they may only work in jobs listed on the government’s immigration salary list.

Challenges Faced by Asylum Seekers

Living Conditions and Mental Health

Many asylum seekers find themselves in substandard living conditions, often in hotels that are located in areas already facing poverty and deprivation. The long waiting times for asylum decisions can lead to mental health issues, as individuals feel trapped and unable to contribute to society.

Financial Strain and System Costs

The cost of operating the UK’s asylum system is significant, reaching around £4 billion in the financial year 2022-23. This financial burden is exacerbated by a backlog of approximately 83,000 asylum claims waiting for an initial decision, leading to increased strain on resources and public services.

Long-term Outcomes for Asylum Seekers

Individuals granted asylum in the UK are allowed to stay for a minimum of five years. During this time, they have the right to work without restrictions, enabling them to contribute to the economy through tax payments and potentially accessing benefits.

Pathway to Settlement

After five years of residency, asylum seekers can apply for settlement in the UK, which allows them to establish a more permanent life in the country. This pathway is crucial for providing stability and security for those who have faced persecution in their home countries.