How to Apply for Asylum in the UK 

If you’ve come to the UK seeking safety from war, violence, persecution or fear in your home country, you have the right to ask for asylum. The process can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the system or facing language barriers.

This guide breaks down the asylum process step by step, so you know what to expect from your first contact with the Home Office, to interviews, appeals, and what to do if your claim is refused.

Need legal advice on your asylum claim? Call 0161 464 4140 or book a consultation with immigration solicitors in Manchester.

How to Apply for Asylum in the UK : Here Are the Steps You Need to Follow

Step 1 – Starting Your Asylum Application

You can claim asylum either:

• At the UK border (e.g. at an airport or port), or
• After you’ve entered the UK, by contacting the Home Office.

To start the process, you must tell an immigration officer or Home Office representative:

“I want to claim asylum.”

If you apply from inside the UK, you’ll be given an appointment for a screening interview. You may also be taken to initial accommodation while your claim begins.

Step 2 – The Screening Interview

The screening interview is your first official meeting with the Home Office. It usually takes place at the Asylum Intake Unit in Croydon (or in some cases, other regional centres).

Here’s what to expect:

• You’ll be asked basic questions about your identity, family, and how you entered the UK.
• Your fingerprints and photo will be taken.
• You’ll be issued with an Asylum Registration Card (ARC).

You won’t be expected to explain your whole asylum case at this stage that comes later.

Bring with you:

• Passport or ID
• Any documents that prove who you are
• Evidence of how you arrived in the UK

You can have a legal adviser attend this interview if arranged in advance.

Step 3 – The Asylum Interview (Substantive Interview)

This is your main interview, where you’ll explain why you’re claiming asylum. It’s your opportunity to tell your story in detail.

During the interview:

• An immigration officer will ask about what happened in your home country.
• You’ll be asked why you fear returning and what protection you need.
• The interview may last several hours.

It’s important to:

• Be honest and clear: even if your story is difficult to tell.
• Mention everything relevant: if you leave out key details now, it can hurt your case later.
• Stay consistent with your screening interview and any written statements.

You have the right to have a solicitor or caseworker help you prepare.

Step 4 – Providing Evidence for Your Claim

To support your asylum case, you’ll be asked to provide evidence. This can include:

• Medical reports

• Police or court documents from your home country
• Photos or videos
• News articles
• Written statements from witnesses or people who know your story

Don’t worry if it’s difficult to get evidence the Home Office understands this, and the key is showing that your story is credible and truthful.

Step 5 – What Happens After You Apply?

Once your interview is complete, your case will be reviewed. The Home Office aims to make decisions within 6 months, but delays are common.

Possible outcomes:

• Refugee status: You’ll get 5 years’ leave to remain, then can apply for settlement.
• Humanitarian protection: Granted if you don’t meet refugee criteria but still face danger.
• Refused : You’ll usually have the right to appeal.

While waiting, you may be entitled to asylum support, including housing and a small allowance if you have no income.

Step 6 – If Your Claim Is Refused

If your asylum application is refused, don’t panic many people win their cases at the appeal stage.

You will receive a refusal letter explaining why the Home Office rejected your claim. This letter will also tell you if you have the right to appeal.

Appealing an Asylum Refusal

You can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber). You must submit your appeal within 14 days.

You’ll be invited to a hearing where a judge will listen to your case. You can submit more evidence and explain your story again. You should always have legal help for your appeal.

Possible outcomes:

• Appeal allowed: The judge disagrees with the Home Office, and you are granted asylum.
• Appeal dismissed: The judge agrees with the refusal. You may be able to appeal further or make a new claim.

Step 7 – Making a Fresh Asylum Claim

If your appeal is dismissed, and you’ve been refused with no further options, you might be able to make a fresh claim.

To do this, you need new evidence or circumstances that were not considered in your original case. This could be:

• A new report about your country’s situation
• A change in your personal life (e.g. conversion, coming out, new risk)
• Documents you couldn’t access before

A solicitor can advise whether your case meets the legal test for a fresh claim.

Finding the Right Legal Support

The asylum process is complex and stressful. Having the right legal support can make a huge difference to your outcome.

Why legal help matters:

• A solicitor ensures your story is clearly told
• They help gather strong evidence
• They represent you during appeals or fresh claims
• They protect your rights during delays or errors by the Home Office

If you don’t have income, you may qualify for legal aid, which covers solicitor costs.

Based in Manchester? 

We’ve helped many people claim asylum and win their appeals.  Call 0161 464 4140 or book your appointment online

Real Life Examples

Amira – Fleeing gender-based violence (Refugee status granted)

Amira arrived from Sudan and applied for asylum after suffering forced marriage threats. With her solicitor’s help, she gave consistent evidence and was granted refugee status after her interview.

Samir – Refused, but won on appeal

Samir was refused asylum due to a lack of documents. On appeal, new evidence showed threats against his family. The judge overturned the Home Office’s decision.

Layla – Fresh claim based on new risk

Layla’s first asylum claim was rejected. Two years later, she made a fresh claim after her home country passed new anti-LGBT+ laws. She was granted humanitarian protection.

FAQs – Applying for Asylum in the UK

Can I apply for asylum after entering the UK?

Yes. You don’t have to apply at the border. You can apply anytime by contacting the Home Office.

Do I need a solicitor to apply for asylum?

It’s not required, but it’s strongly recommended. A solicitor can help you avoid mistakes and prepare properly.

Can I work while my asylum claim is pending?

Only in limited situations usually if you’ve been waiting over 12 months for a decision.

How long does the asylum process take?

There’s no fixed time. Some cases take months; others take years, depending on the backlog and complexity.

What happens if I’m refused and can’t appeal?

You may be able to submit a fresh claim if new evidence arises. Speak to a solicitor as soon as possible.

Applying for asylum in the UK is a serious process and one that affects your future. Knowing what to expect at each stage gives you the best chance of success. Whether you’re just starting or facing a refusal, legal support can make all the difference.

Need help with your asylum application or appeal? 

Call 0161 464 4140 or book a free consultation with immigration solicitors in Manchester.