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Immigration law

Asylum & Refugee Protection

If you cannot safely go home, your story deserves to be heard properly. We help you tell it.

A folded wool blanket and a steaming cup of tea on a simple table by a window at night, warm lamp light, a feeling of safety and rest
Changed March 2026

For adults claiming asylum from 2 March 2026, refugee status is now granted for 30 months at a time and reviewed, instead of 5 years. Rules checked October 2026.

Is this you?

Who this is for

  • You fear persecution or serious harm if you return home
  • You have a substantive interview coming up
  • You have new evidence after a refusal (a fresh claim)
  • You have refugee status and want to bring family to join you

What the rules require

Well-founded fear
Of persecution for race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership of a particular social group.
No safe option
You cannot get protection from your own state or by moving within your country.
Credibility
Your account is consistent and, where possible, supported by evidence.

A summary, not legal advice. The Immigration Rules change often; we confirm what applies on your application date.

Free first step

10 minutes with a solicitor about your asylum & refugee protection matter.

Prepare

Your document checklist

Tick off what you already have. Bring the rest to mind before your consultation, and we'll tell you what really matters for your case.

0 of 5 ready

If you have them
Don't worry if you don't

A general guide. Your solicitor confirms exactly what your case needs. Your ticks are saved on this device only.

The process

How it works

  1. 1Claim registeredA screening interview records your basic details.
  2. 2PreparationWe help you prepare a full, consistent statement and evidence.
  3. 3Substantive interviewThe main interview about why you need protection.
  4. 4DecisionA grant of protection, or a refusal with reasons.
  5. 5If refusedUsually 14 days to appeal to the First-tier Tribunal from inside the UK.

Fixed.

How our fees work

After your free consultation we quote a fixed fee in writing, covering exactly what we will do. Home Office fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge are paid separately to the government, and we tell you the current amounts before you commit.

  1. Free

    Your first 10 minutes with a solicitor.

  2. In writing

    A fixed fee for the agreed work, before anything starts.

  3. No surprises

    Government fees quoted up front and paid to the Home Office.

FAQs

Asylum & Refugee Protection: your questions

Still unsure? A ten-minute call usually settles it.

020 7183 8043

How long is refugee status granted for now?

For adults claiming asylum on or after 2 March 2026, refugee status is granted for 30 months and then reviewed. It is renewed if you still need protection. Earlier claims were usually granted 5 years. Unaccompanied children are currently treated differently.

Is legal aid available?

Legal aid is available for asylum for people who qualify. If you would be better served by a legal aid provider, we will tell you honestly and help you find one.

Can I work while my claim is decided?

Usually not, unless you have waited more than 12 months for a decision through no fault of your own, and then only in jobs on the shortage list.

My claim was refused. Is it over?

No. You may be able to appeal, usually within 14 days. If your appeal rights are exhausted, new evidence may support a fresh claim.