An asylum seeker is someone who has come to this country because it isn’t safe for them to live in their home country.
You must declare yourself as an asylum seeker when you enter the country. The government will then decide whether it is safe for you to return to your country. If you cannot safely return, you will be given refugee status.
Housing options while you wait for a decision
It can take a long time for the government to make a decision on your application for asylum. Until a decision is made, you are not allowed to work or apply for benefits. The government is required to give you some basic help, such as
- housing, if you need this
- limited financial support for essentials like food, clothing and toiletries.
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