Applying for asylum support

In order to apply for accommodation and support, an asylum seeker or her/his dependents must submit an asylum support form. [1]

Voluntary sector organisations have entered into contracts with the Home Office to provide assistance to asylum seekers who want to make applications for NASS support. In Scotland this assistance is provided by the Scottish Refugee Council (SRC) via a one-stop service located in Glasgow.

An application for support can be made at any time before a final decision is made on an individual's asylum claim. [2] One form is sufficient to make an application for the asylum seeker and her/his dependents.

The UK Border Agency aims to make support decisions within three working days, [3] although in practice it may takes longer than this.

If the UK Border Agency determines that an applicant is eligible to receive support, it will write a letter to the asylum seeker informing her/him that the application has been successful. The letter will also provide details of the level of support that the applicant is to receive and where her/his accommodation will be located. S/he will also be informed of any arrangement that have been made regarding her/his travel. [4]

If the UK Border Agency decides that an applicant is not eligible for asylum support, it must send the applicant a refusal letter and a letter explaining why the application has been rejected. The applicant must also be sent a notice of appeal form and explanatory letter. [5]