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When you receive a positive decision on your asylum claim


When you receive a positive decision on your asylum claim

(Correct as of November 2024)

After you receive a positive decision on your asylum claim we know you will probably have lots of things to think about. These might include your plans to study, to work or to travel to see people you care about. After you have received your decision, you only have a short time before your asylum support ends so it is important to focus on these three things first.

1. Proof of status and identification - your eVisa

  • The UK is moving to a digital immigration system. From 31st October 2024, the Home Office started issuing eVisas instead of Biometric Residence Permits (BRP).

  • Your eVisa is very important. You will need it to get a job or to claim benefits, and to rent somewhere to live.

  • The Home Office will create your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account and your eVisa within 14 days of your positive decision being made. They will send you the login information you need to access your account and eVisa.

  • If you do not receive your UKVI account details, or if you need help to access your eVisa, please contact the UKVI Resolution Centre using their online webchat (go to www.gov.uk/evisa (external link) and click “If you need help”), or contact Migrant Help on 07483 170100 or email evisa@migranthelpuk.org.

  • If there are any errors on your eVisa, please contact UKVI to Report an error with your eVisa (external website)

2. Your money

  • Once you have a positive decision, you are allowed to work and earn money.

  • If you can’t work or can’t find a job quickly, you should apply for welfare benefits (usually Universal Credit). You can apply online, or in person at your local Job Centre Plus.

  • Do this straight away as it can take some time before you receive your payments.

  • You will also need to open a Bank Account.

3. Your housing

  • Once you have a positive decision, you can start to look for and move into your own accommodation.

  • You can ask your local Council (where you are living when you get your decision) to help you. If you are generally healthy and if you do not have children living with you, you will not be seen as a priority and they will be unlikely to offer you any accommodation. There is a severe shortage of social housing and council accommodation for everyone at the moment.

Housing ABC

A - First – accept that the first place you find might only be short term. It might be small, shared or temporary accommodation and not in the area where you want to live.

B - Next – once you have some income and/or a job, you can look for a better place to rent that is closer to what you want, but still affordable. Things like English classes and employment support will help you do this.

C - Later – work towards a comfortable home that you would like to live in for the longer term.

To find out about help available in your area, point your phone camera at the QR code below to open the RSMP website for more information (external website).

Homelessness QR code

Positive decision on your asylum claim - not accessible (PDF, 567KB)

 

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