Asylum support and legal guidance
Understanding asylum
Claiming asylum in the UK is a vital step for individuals and families who cannot return to their home country because it is unsafe to do so. It is not simply a legal procedure—it is a life-changing process rooted in protection, dignity, and security. At LawSentis, we guide you through every stage of this journey with clarity and care.
Your right to protection under international law
The UK’s asylum system is built on international obligations, including the 1951 Refugee Convention and the principle of non-refoulement. This means the UK must not return you to a country where your life or freedom would be at risk. These protections are also part of UK domestic law, ensuring that people facing persecution have the right to safety.
Who can claim asylum
You may be eligible to seek asylum in the UK if you have a well-founded fear of persecution or serious harm in your country of origin.
This may include:
- Threats or violence due to race, religion, nationality, or political opinion.
- Risk of harm because of your gender, sexuality, or membership of a particular social group.
- Inhuman or degrading treatment, torture, or danger from conflict.
- Situations where your government is unwilling or unable to protect you.
UK authorities also consider whether you could safely relocate to another part of your home country (known as the internal flight alternative). If nowhere is safe for you, your claim may be stronger.
The asylum process in detail
Making a claim
You must make your claim as soon as possible after arriving in the UK. Delays in applying can make your case more difficult.
The screening interview
This is your first official meeting with the Home Office. Basic information about your identity, background, travel route, and initial reasons for seeking asylum will be recorded.
You cannot include dependants in a long residence ILR application. Each family member must apply separately if eligible.
The substantive interview
This is a detailed interview where you will explain your experiences, fears, and why you cannot return home. It is one of the most important stages of your application. The accuracy and consistency of your statements, together with supporting evidence, are carefully assessed.
Decision
The Home Office will decide whether to grant:
- Refugee status – normally 5 years’ permission to stay, leading to settlement
- Humanitarian protection – granted if you face a real risk of serious harm (such as torture, inhuman treatment, or death) but your case does not fall strictly under the Refugee Convention.
- Discretionary leave – granted in limited exceptional cases, such as medical needs or other compassionate grounds.
Appeals and fresh claims
If your application is refused, you may have the right to appeal. If circumstances change or new evidence arises, you may also be able to make a fresh claim.
Inadmissibility rules: Your asylum claim may be rejected if the UK believes another safe country is responsible for examining your case, such as if you already claimed asylum elsewhere in Europe.
Your rights during an asylum claim
While waiting for a decision, you may be entitled to:
- Schooling for children.
- Legal representation for your case.
- Access to healthcare under the NHS.
- Weekly financial assistance for living expenses.
- Accommodation provided through the asylum support system.
Although asylum seekers generally cannot work while awaiting a decision, you may be allowed to apply for permission to work if your case has been outstanding for over 12 months and the delay is not your fault.
Outcomes and next steps
A successful asylum claim will usually give you 5 years’ permission to stay in the UK. After this period, you can apply for indefinite leave to remain (settlement). Refugee status also opens the path to British citizenship in the future.
Refugees and those with humanitarian protection may also apply for a Refugee Travel Document, allowing international travel when returning to their home country is unsafe. Family reunion rights are also available, allowing spouses/partners and children under 18 to join you in the UK.
If refused, you may be offered assisted voluntary return or have to leave the UK. However, every case is unique, and the right strategy can make a significant difference.
How LawSentis can help
At LawSentis, we understand that asylum is more than paperwork—it is about safety, security, and rebuilding your life.
We provide:
- Careful preparation of your asylum claim and supporting evidence.
- Step-by-step guidance through both screening and substantive interviews.
- Representation and support in appeals or fresh claims.
- Advice on housing, healthcare, financial support, and family reunion rights.
- Assistance with applying for refugee travel documents and settlement after 5 years
- Long-term guidance for moving from refugee status to citizenship.
We handle every case with compassion, confidentiality, and professionalism. Our team ensures that your voice is heard, your rights are protected, and your application is presented with the strongest possible chance of success.
Our regulation at IAA Level 3 means we are authorised to advise on and represent you in the most complex asylum and human rights matters, including tribunal hearings and higher appeals. Few firms hold this level of authorisation — it reflects the depth of our expertise and our ability to handle cases of the highest complexity.
Contact LawSentis today for a confidential consultation. We are here to help you secure protection and begin building your new future in the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions or need more information? Our team is here to help.
Let’s Discuss & Start Visa Consultations
Expert guidance on visas, settlement, citizenship, and asylum — just a message away.