Skip over main navigation
  • Log in
  • Basket: (0 items)
Migrant Help
Portal Contact us Free asylum helpline: 0808 8010 503 Accessibility tool
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
Donate
Menu
  • About us
    • What we do
    • Where we work
    • Our vision
    • Our people
    • Our history
    • Our policies
    • Our strategy
    • Co-production
    • Charity information
    • Accounts and reports
  • Our services
    • Asylum services
    • Slavery and trafficking victim support
    • Refugee resettlement
    • EU Settlement Scheme advice
    • Clear Voice Interpreting Services
  • Resources
    • Ukraine crisis
    • Afghanistan crisis
    • Asylum resources
    • Translated asylum support
    • Coronavirus support
    • EU Settlement Scheme resources
    • Thrive: a podcast
    • Frequently asked questions
  • Support us
  • Partner with us
  • Jobs
  • News
    • News
    • Client stories
    • Events
  • Admin
    • Log in
  • Basket: (0 items)
  1. FAQs

Positive asylum decision

When will my asylum support stop?

Expand

You have 28 (Section 95/Section 4 support) or 21 (Section 98 support) days from the date that the decision was made on your asylum application to move from Home Office support. Asylum support/AASC providers will provide a minimum of 7 days’ notice that asylum payments and asylum accommodation will end. It is important that you start making plans before you receive your discontinuation letter. This will enable you to be ready to move on.

Published: 24th August, 2023

Updated: 14th September, 2023

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

When will I receive my BRP card?

Expand

You should normally receive you BRP card within 10 days of receiving you Home Office decision.

  • If you have a legal representative your BRP card maybe sent to then. You will need to check with your legal representative/solicitor in case this is sent to them.

  • If your BRP is posted directly you may receive a text and/or email confirming delivery. However, if they do not have your details you may receive a ‘missed delivery/ TNT calling card’. You will need to follow the instructions on the card to arrange for the card to be delivered. You can contact TNT, where you will need your postcode and you 9 digit consignment number.

  • If you have not received your BRP card within 10 working days of being granted your leave to remain, and you are unable to track your order with TNT, please contact the Home Office. This can be done directly or through your legal representative. The Home Office should respond within 5 working days.

Published: 24th August, 2023

Updated: 25th August, 2023

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

I have received my BRP card but the details are incorrect

Expand

If the information on the BRP is incorrect then you must report the issues to the Home Office.

This may relate to:

  • Name
  • Place of birth
  • Date of birth
  • Gender
  • Nationality
  • Photograph

Please note: your name and date of birth should match those on any immigration paperwork.

If you have not yet notified the Home Office of BRP errors you must report these.

If you are still in receipt of support, once you have reported any errors, you must contact our helpline where we will complete a reinstatement request. You will need to provide information on how and when you notified the Home Office so that we can include this in the application.

Published: 24th August, 2023

Updated: 25th August, 2023

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

How can I apply for Universal Credit?

Expand

You can apply for Universal Credit if under state pension age, not in full time employment and need help with living costs.

  • Citizens Advice | Help to Claim service
    This can help with the early stages, including making an application, interview guidance and advice on problems with payments.
    • England - 0800 144 8444
    • Wales - 0800 241 220
    • Scotland - 0800 023 2581
    • Not available in Northern Ireland
  • Universal Credit Service Centre Helpline (you can ask for an interpreter)
    • England - 0800 328 1344
    • Wales - 0800 328 5644
    • Scotland - 0800 023 2581
    • Northern Ireland - 0800 012 1331

  • Universal Credit online (for people who can apply independently)

Universal Credit takes 5 weeks to be paid. Please ask about the advance payment at your first interview if you don’t think you can wait that long.

If you have already had your first interview you can phone the helpline to ask for an advance payment.

Published: 24th August, 2023

Updated: 25th August, 2023

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Do I need a bank account?

Expand

You will need a bank account to receive Universal Credit. A Biometric Residency Permit (BRP) and proof of address will be required to open an account.

Please see the following online banks:

  • Monzo
  • Monese
  • Starling Bank
  • Revolut
  • Chase Bank UK

Alternatively you can apply for a bank account on the high street, at places such as Lloyds Bank and Nationwide Building Society.

Published: 24th August, 2023

Updated: 25th August, 2023

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

How do I secure housing?

Expand

If you require support with housing, you will need to approach the local housing options and/or homelessness team at the local council as soon as possible.

The local council housing options team may not be able to provide you with housing. Please ensure you update them when you receive your NTQ letter that shows your eviction. Private rented accommodation is an alternative to local council accommodation.

Find your local council

Local housing allowance rates (filter by city and bedroom requirements)

  • UK, Scotland & Wales
  • Northern Ireland

Private accommodation/landlords (filter by city and bedroom requirements)

  • DSS Move
  • DSSaccepted
  • Zoopla
  • Rightmove
  • Homefinder UK
  • Nuroa

If you secure private accommodation you may be able eligible for a discretionary housing payment from the council, to support with rental deposits and your first months rent. Please find more information below, entering your postcode where required for the correct amount:

  • England
  • Scotland
  • Wales
  • Northern Ireland

You can apply for a refugee integration loan to pay for:

  • A rent deposit or rent
  • Household items
  • Education and training for work

You must provide your National Insurance number. You should also provide photocopies of:

  • Your biometric residence permit, immigration status document or passport
  • A bank statement, or letter confirming your bank details

Submit your application

Ensure you sign it then scan or photograph the completed form, along with supporting documents, and email them to the Home Office.

Published: 24th August, 2023

Updated: 25th August, 2023

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

How do I get a National Insurance number?

Expand
  • If you have a BRP, you may have a National Insurance number already. It will be printed on the back of your BRP if you do.
  • If you don’t have a National Insurance number yet or don’t remember it, you can still apply for Universal Credit.

    You can also call the National Insurance number application line on 0800 141 2079 (England, Scotland and Wales) or 0800 587 0024 (Northern Ireland). Ask whether they issued you with a National Insurance number. If they haven’t, you can ask what you need to do to apply for one.

If you have not received your BRP, please refer to When will I receive my BRP card?.

Published: 24th August, 2023

Updated: 25th August, 2023

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Will the Home Office extend my support?

Expand

The Home Office will not reinstate support where accommodation has not been found or benefits are not in place. You will need to speak to your local council housing options team to see if they can provide you with emergency housing, or provide details of any homelessness support available locally. If you have applied for Universal Credit, you should contact the helpline to request an advance payment.

The Home Office may consider reinstating support if one of the following apply:

If you receive a termination of support letter or notice to quit and

  1. You have not received 7 days’ notice.
  2. You have not received your BRP
  3. You have reported the errors on you BRP and these have not yet been corrected.
  4. Or you require adaptations to your property.

If you meet these criteria, please contact our helpline on 0808 8010 503.

Published: 24th August, 2023

Updated: 25th August, 2023

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Job Centre Plus Work Coach

Expand

If you are receiving Universal Credit and are job ready you will be provided with the details of a Job Centre Plus Work Coach. The Work Coach will support with job searching, connect you with potential employers, find you training programmes, support with your CV and help with interview techniques.

Published: 24th August, 2023

Updated: 25th August, 2023

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

What documents do I need for my Universal Credit application or housing appointments?

Expand
  • NTQ showing your end of support/eviction date.
  • Bank account details (if you don’t have one contact the Citizens Advice (CAB) Help to Claim service for further guidance. See Universal Credit section above for contact details).
  • Details of any income and savings.
  • Details of any work you are planning to start.

The CAB Help to Claim service can provide guidance on documents required as part of their service.

  • England - 0800 144 8444
  • Wales - 0800 241 220
  • Scotland - 0800 023 2581 
  • Not available in Northern Ireland

Published: 25th August, 2023

Updated: 21st September, 2023

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Other services

Expand

You can download an app called RefAid.

  • RefAid is a mobile app, that shows you nearby services, with a very simple interface. You can search for support with ESOL, housing, social engagement, food banks and employment support in your area.

Northern Ireland - LawCentreNI Refugee Transition Guide

Northern Ireland – Housing Executive

Wales – Welsh Refugee Council

 

Published: 25th August, 2023

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
Back to top

Latest

  • Tier 1 Team Leader - Dover

    Tier 1 Team Leader - Dover

    Migrant Help are looking for a Tier 1 Team Leader to join our call centre in Dover on a 9 month fixed-term contract. There will be a potential for the role to be made permanent or extended. You will work as part of our vibrant and committed Helpline team which is expanding in number, to continue the excellent work it does in supporting individuals and families who are seeking asylum in the UK.

  • Modern Slavery Victim Care Accommodation Adviser - Dover

    Modern Slavery Victim Care Accommodation Adviser - Dover

    Migrant Help are currently looking for a Modern Slavery Victim Care Accommodation Adviser to join our committed and compassionate MSVC team, on a permanent contract. The successful candidate will have a keen eye for detail with the ability to proactively ensure that business needs are met. They will have a positive attitude and the ability to work collaboratively.

  • Webchat improvements

    Webchat improvements

    Our new and improved webchat facility, which you can use to access both the First Response Centre (FRC) and Eligibility, Advice and Guidance Line (EAGL), is now live.

  • Helpline Adviser - Dover

    Helpline Adviser - Dover

    Migrant Help are looking for Helpline Advisers to join our call centre in Dover on a 9 month fixed-term contract. There will be a potential for the role to be made permanent or extended. You will work as part of a vibrant and committed telephone Helpline team which is expanding in number, to continue the excellent work it does in supporting individuals and families who are seeking asylum in the UK.

Most read

  • Как да видите и докажете имиграционния си статут

    Как да видите и докажете имиграционния си статут

  • Wyświetlanie i sprawdzanie statusu imigracyjnego

    Wyświetlanie i sprawdzanie statusu imigracyjnego

  • Asylum advice and guidance

    Asylum advice and guidance

    Our comprehensive guide will help you navigate through the asylum process.

  • What we do

    What we do

    Here at Migrant Help, we exist to protect people affected by displacement and exploitation, helping them thrive as individuals and recover from their trauma.

  • How to view and prove your immigration status

    How to view and prove your immigration status

  • Webchat now live

    Webchat now live

    Migrant Help's webchat is now live, making it easier for asylum seekers to contact our advisers.

  • New Aspen card roll out

    New Aspen card roll out

    As a result of the roll out of the new Aspen cards, our helpline has been extremely busy and we sincerely apologise to everyone who is having difficulties in contacting us.

  • Changes to contact methods

    Changes to contact methods

  • Refugee resettlement

    Refugee resettlement

    We assist families and individuals resettled into the UK through the Syrian Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scheme.

  • العربية

    Arabic

Crisis fund

Crisis fund

Read more

Donate Fundraise

Published: 31st January, 2018

Updated: 25th January, 2023

Author: Deleted User

Sign up for our newsletter

Please enter your first name
Please enter your last name
Please enter your email address Please enter a valid email address (e.g. [email protected])
Migrant Help logo

Contact us

Free asylum helpline: 0808 8010 503

Head office: 01304 203 977

Email: [email protected]

Registered Charity (England and Wales): 1088631
Registered Charity (Scotland): SC041022
Company No (England and Wales): 4172880

Useful links

  • Press
  • Accessibility
  • Privacy policy
  • Modern Slavery Statement
  • Sitemap
  • Terms & conditions
  • Admin login
  • My details
  • Log out
  • Facebook
  • Twitter


OISC registration number:
N200100480 

Manage Cookie Preferences