ICAR

Law and Process

UK asylum law and process

Written by Kim Ward in June 2003 Updated with input from Sophie Wainwright and Gareth Morrell in July 2006. 

The aim of this guide is to provide the reader with a comprehensive overview of asylum law and process in the UK. It has been designed as an introduction to the topic and highlights the main perspectives on current debates. Readers looking for more detailed literature or advice will find contacts and suggestions on how to locate further information throughout the document. Individuals with specific legal enquiries should seek advice from a qualified immigration solicitor or caseworker.

Throughout the text every effort has been made to source information and assertions and to provide links to relevant websites. The guide has been broken down into key headings so that the information can be easily navigated. There are also internal links so that it is easy to move between overlapping topics.

Developments in asylum law are rapid and the field is constantly evolving. In between updates of this guide, current information can be obtained from the sources provided.

UK asylum law and process, relating to the determination of claims, rather than asylum support, is the main focus of the guide. However, international and European perspectives are also given on certain key issues where they are central to understanding developments in the domestic context.

If you require legal advice on an immigration or asylum matter, please contact one of the organisations listed below or visit ICAR’s contacts for legal advice webpage.

Community Legal Service provides a searchable directory of approved solicitors, advice agencies and information providers.

Immigration Advisory Service (IAS) specialises in immigration and asylum matters.

Refugee Legal Centre provides legal advice and representation for those seeking protection under international and national Human Rights Asylum law.

Kim Ward has worked as a caseworker at a law firm in west London that specialises in immigration and asylum law. She has an MA in political science and refugee studies from York University, Toronto. She is currently working for ICAR as a researcher.

The guide was written with the assistance of Sophie Wainwright and Gareth Morrell. ICAR would like to thank Chris Nash (ECRE) for his comments and also Keith Best (Immigration Advisory Service), and Mick Chatwin for their input into the initial draft of this guide.

Last Updated: 25/02/09

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