If you are in danger in your country of origin or residence and wish to receive international protection from the UK, claiming asylum may be the solution for you. However, it is important to note that it is impossible to claim asylum outside the UK, and no visa allows individuals to enter the UK solely to claim asylum [7].
Applying for Asylum in the UK
To claim asylum in the UK, you can use form ASF1 and send it to the Asylum Support Casework Team [2]. To make an appointment, you can call the Asylum Intake Unit Appointments Line at 0300 123 4193 from Monday to Thursday, 9.00 am to 4.45 pm, and Friday, 9.00 am to 4.30 pm [6].
If you are a child applying independently, you can still claim asylum in the UK [1].
International Protection
If your asylum claim is successful, you will be granted official refugee status and receive protection under international laws and conventions, including the UN Refugee Convention, of which the UK is a signatory [10]. Under the UN Refugee Convention, individuals have the choice of where they apply for asylum and do not have to apply for asylum in the first safe place they reach.
Statistics on Asylum Claims in the UK
Data published in 2022 showed that the number of asylum claims in the UK was almost 75,000, the highest number in 19 years [9]. When comparing the UK to other EU countries, the latest EU-wide data from 2021 showed that the UK received 48,540 asylum seeker applications [8].
In the year ending September 2022, Albania was the top nationality claiming asylum in the UK with 13,650 applications [4]. In the year ending September 2021, EU+ (EU, EEA, and Switzerland) countries saw a 4% decrease in asylum applications, receiving 418,495 first-time asylum applications from non-EU citizens.
Data on the Asylum System in the UK
Data on the total number of cases in the UK asylum system, including cases awaiting appeal outcomes and failed asylum seekers subject to removal from the UK, is available [3].
Conclusion
Claiming asylum in the UK is a complex process, but you can apply for international protection in the UK by using form ASF1 and following the steps outlined. With successful asylum claims, individuals will receive official refugee status and protection under international laws and conventions, including the UN Refugee Convention. It is important to remember that it is not possible to claim asylum from outside the UK, and there is no visa specifically for entering the UK to claim asylum. The number of asylum claims in the UK has been increasing, with Albania being the top nationality claiming asylum in the year ending September 2022. Data on the total number of cases in the UK asylum system, including cases awaiting appeal outcomes and failed asylum seekers, is available for reference. By following the proper procedures and seeking the necessary support, individuals can take steps towards claiming asylum in the UK.
