When immigrants come to the UK, what they receive depends largely on their immigration status. Asylum seekers, who are waiting for their claim to be decided, are usually provided with free accommodation if they are destitute, and a weekly cash allowance of about £49.18 per person to cover essentials like food, clothing, and toiletries. If meals are provided in their accommodation, the allowance is reduced to about £9.95. Asylum seekers also have access to free National Health Service (NHS) healthcare, including free prescriptions, dental care, and eyesight tests. Their children must attend state schools which are free, and they may also receive free school meals. However, asylum seekers generally are not allowed to work while their claim is being processed.
If an asylum seeker is granted refugee status, they receive permission to stay and work in the UK without restriction. They will receive a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account as evidence of their status and can apply for benefits if they are unable to work or earn enough. With refugee status, they can open a bank account, get a National Insurance number, and may receive support to find housing, training, or work. Benefits available could include Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, and others depending on their circumstances.
Other migrants' access to benefits and support depends on their immigration status and satisfying presence and residence requirements, with more limited access for some categories of migrants.
In summary:
- Asylum seekers get accommodation (if destitute), a weekly allowance, free healthcare, and free education for children but generally cannot work.
- Refugees get permission to work, access to benefits, housing support, healthcare, education, a national insurance number, and can open bank accounts.
- Other migrants’ access to benefits varies by legal status.
This detailed framework captures what immigrants typically receive upon arrival and during their early stay in the UK.
