Asylum & protection information

A clear starting point

Find a clear starting point when you fear persecution or serious harm on return. This page sets out the questions to consider before choosing an application and paying any charges.

People seeking to understand the UK asylum process and how to obtain appropriate specialist help. The correct approach depends on the exact permission, application location and immigration history involved. A similar-looking case may be subject to a different rule or transitional arrangement.

Who is this for?

People seeking to understand the UK asylum process and how to obtain appropriate specialist help.

General eligibility and requirements

Protection cases depend on individual risk and the applicable legal framework. The process differs from an ordinary visa application; urgent safety and legal needs should be assessed promptly.

Check the current official guidance for the intended submission date. If you have a previous refusal, an approaching expiry date or a change in circumstances, include that in your initial enquiry. These details may affect what is possible and how urgently you need advice.

Supporting documents

A useful evidence file addresses the specific requirements, with clear dates and consistent personal details. Depending on your circumstances, the following may be relevant:

• Identity records if available
• a personal chronology
• relevant risk evidence
• previous decisions
• interview notices
• documents about family and circumstances

This is a preparation list, not an exhaustive submission checklist. Check required formats, relevant evidence periods and translation requirements. Keep an exact copy of the final application and evidence. See our document preparation guide for a practical way to organise your records.

The application process

1. Seek appropriate specialist support and understand how to claim through the official process. If safety or an immediate deadline is involved, make that clear promptly.
2. Prepare an accurate personal chronology and preserve available evidence without putting yourself or others at risk. Raise language, vulnerability or interview-support needs through the relevant process.
3. Attend required appointments and keep contact information current. Read decisions and any appeal information promptly with appropriate specialist help.

For appeals, protection and employer compliance matters, the relevant procedure may be a review, tribunal process or ongoing duty rather than a visa application. The official source below identifies the appropriate starting point.

Government fees & processing times

Professional fees are separate from government charges. Ask for a written quote confirming scope, any VAT, exclusions and additional costs. Our fees information explains what to clarify. Paying for a faster service does not guarantee approval or a decision by a particular date.

Common issues to consider

Delaying access to appropriate specialist support, incomplete accounts caused by misunderstanding and sharing traumatic evidence through an insecure initial enquiry.

Where a record is missing or inconsistent, explain the issue honestly and establish which evidence can address it. Do not amend a document to make it appear to meet a requirement. For help preparing for a discussion, read our consultation preparation guide.

Frequently asked questions