Asylum seekers and refugees
This content applies to England only.
Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. Get advice relating to Scotland
If you are an asylum seeker, a refugee or are appealing against an unsuccessful asylum claim, you may be entitled to housing and support. However, asylum seekers are not allowed to claim benefits in the same way as UK citizens.
For more detailed information, you will need to speak to a specialist adviser. You can find one, and/or an interpreter, by calling Shelter's housing advice helpline on 0808 800 4444.
If you haven't yet applied for asylum in the UK, contact the UK Border Agency (UKBA) as soon as possible. You can also find more advice for new arrivals from the Housing rights information website.
Where to go for help
You may be entitled to housing and other support from the Government. What you are entitled to will depend on your circumstances.
Asylum support
Find out who can get asylum support from UKBA, how they should help you and what you can do if you have problems.
When a decision is made
Find out what help and support you will be entitled to once the Home Office has made a decision on your asylum claim.
Immigration jargon
Confused by the language used in immigration and asylum documents? This page explains what the most common terms mean.
