Every year thousands of people flee their own country to seek refuge in the UK. They might be frightened of persecution by government, political or terrorist groups. They might be afraid of their own family or community. We can provide asylum advice and assistance for those who are in need.
If you wish to claim asylum in the UK you must show that you have a real fear of persecution from government or non-government bodies in your home country - and the reason for your fear is who you are - your race, gender, religion, sexual orientation or political views for example. If you are successful with your claim, you will be granted Refugee status. You will be able to live and work in the UK without worrying about your immigration status. You can apply to bring your existing close family members to the UK.
If you are not granted asylum you may claim Humanitarian Protection. You must show you are at risk of serious harm in your home country - not because you are part of a particular social group but because of your personal situation. If you are successful with your claim, you will be granted Humanitarian Protection and you will also be able to live and work in the UK. You can also apply to bring close family members to the UK.
You can claim asylum as soon as you have entered the UK, often at the airport or ferry port. To begin with, you will be interviewed by Home Office staff. Some time later you will need to attend a longer interview where you be closely questioned about your personal history and why you have claimed asylum.
Some people do not claim asylum when they arrive here - they may already be in the UK legally but the situation changes in their home country and they are frightened to return.
Asylum seekers often have no evidence to support their claim. The interviews are difficult. It is a time of uncertainty and it may be confusing and bewildering. It is vital that you get legal help at this time.
We can be with you at any step of the process. You might have just claimed asylum and need legal help to navigate the interview processes. Alternatively, you may be waiting for the decision, or perhaps you may have received a refusal of your asylum claim.
You are entitled to legal help with an asylum claim, and you can access this through 'Legal Aid' which is government money to pay your legal fees. We do not have a Legal Aid contract, so if you use our services, you will need to pay us.
Our lawyers are able to advise on the strength of your claim and what sort of evidence you may need to back up your claim. We can talk you through the process and communicate with the Home Office on your behalf. We can find evidence about your home country that is likely to strengthen your claim.
If you need to appeal against a refusal of your asylum claim to a judge in the Immigration Tribunal, we can prepare the appeal and represent you. Our experienced team has a great deal of experience in front of judges at the Immigration Tribunal. We can obtain expert evidence if it supports what you are saying happened to you and why you are afraid. We will analyse information about your home country which may of use. Our lawyers are known for fighting hard and we have a great track record of successful appeals.
Whenever you approach us, we will assess the situation and act as necessary. At Immigration Legal Services, we will listen to you. We will always advise honestly and do the best we can at whatever stage of the process.
"I am blown away by her integrity and all the hard work. Angela is very professional and focused with great competency."
Kwaku Manuel
We have a duty of legal confidentiality so you can speak to us knowing that what you say will not go any further. Our team is careful and understanding; we do not want to add to an already confusing and distressing situation.
Yes. If they were your family when you left your country to seek asylum, they can apply under the Family Reunion route to come to live in the UK.
Yes. If things have changed in your country since you arrived here and you are now afraid to return when your Visa expires, you may be able to claim asylum.
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