If you are concerned about this or you want to have an idea of what the future may hold, then you should look to try to find as much information as possible that can help you to acclimate to this, as well as helping you to know your rights and what you are entitled to. The UK is such a wonderfully cosmopolitan nation, and knowing what you should expect. 

So what is claiming asylum?

Understanding exactly what claiming asylum means is really important here for knowing what you need to work towards, and being able to determine precisely what you want to achieve here. Well, in simple terms, an asylum seeker is any person who leaves their home country due to war, or a situation putting them and their family in danger, and travels to another country to apply for international protection. It is important to know what this definition is so that you know whether or not you qualify for asylum in the UK. 

You can apply for asylum in the UK, a process that typically takes around 6 months, however the Home Office may in cases take longer to determine the outcome of a claim. You will need to attend a screening interview and substantive asylum interview, have your documentation verified, and your personal circumstances and background will likely be checked. It is important to make sure you know this and work on being able to increase your chances of success where possible. 

Get in touch with a lawyer

Something else you need to remember is that you should look to get in touch with a lawyer as soon as possible in the process. You need to make sure you have legal representation and protection, and this is something that is hugely important for making the most of right now. Do as much as you can to get in touch with a lawyer and immigration solicitor so that you can get your asylum application process completed in the most efficient way possible, and this is a really important part of the process moving forward. 

What is ‘Leave to Remain?’

There is an immigration status that directly applies to you as an asylum seeker, and it’s called ‘refugee leave to remain.’ This is where, if you qualify for asylum, you and your dependents may be given permission to stay in the UK for 5 years. After this 5-year period you can apply to settle in the United Kingdom as a permanent resident. 

If you want to seek asylum in the United Kingdom then it’s vitally important that you do as much as you can to understand this process. You have rights, and you need to remember that, and having someone fighting your corner for you is so important. Try to make sure you come up with factors that will allow you to play a part in this, and make sure you know exactly how long you are able to stay in the UK.