1. eVisa — Create a UKVI Account
eVisa is your digital immigration status. From 2025, eVisa replaces the physical BRP.
How to get it:
- Go to gov.uk/get-access-evisa
- Create a UKVI account (email + password)
- Link your details — name, date of birth, document number
Why you need it:
- To prove your right to work
- To rent a property (right to rent check)
- To open a bank account
- To claim benefits
Do this on day one after receiving status.
2. Bank — Open a Full Account
After receiving status, your ASPEN card will stop working. You need a full bank account.
Suitable banks:
- Halifax — refugee-friendly, open in branch
- Lloyds — accept eVisa and BRP
- Monzo — online, fast
- Starling — online, convenient app
What you need:
- eVisa or BRP
- Proof of address (letter from hotel, GP or council)
Also recommended:
Bank comparison for migrants — Monzo, Revolut, Suits Me, Starling, Chase. No BRP, no proof of address.
First steps in UK — checklist — SIM, bank, NI Number, GP, housing in 30 days.
3. Universal Credit — Apply on Day One
Universal Credit is the main benefit for people on low income or out of work. Apply on the very first day.
How to apply:
- Go to gov.uk/universal-credit
- Fill in the online application
- Book an appointment at Job Centre Plus
What you need:
- NI Number (National Insurance)
- Bank account
- Home address
5-week wait — the first payment will only arrive after 5 weeks. If you have no money, request an advance payment, which will be deducted from future payments.
4. Housing — Council Housing or Private Rent
You have 42 days from receiving status to find housing. After that, you will be removed from asylum accommodation (hotel).
What to do:
- Apply for council housing (homelessness duty) — the council is obliged to help
- If you have no money and nowhere to live — the council must provide temporary accommodation (Homelessness Reduction Act 2017)
- Consider private renting — you'll need a bank account, deposit, and right to rent check
Important: don't wait until the last day. Apply for homelessness duty as early as possible — the queue is long.
5. Work — No Restrictions Now
With refugee status you have the full right to work — no restrictions on position or level.
What you need:
- NI Number — sent automatically by HMRC (see below)
- eVisa — your employer will check your status online
- CV (resume) — prepare or update one
Where to find work:
- Job Centre Plus — book via Universal Credit
- Indeed, Reed, LinkedIn — online job boards
- Recruitment agencies — especially for warehouse, construction, cleaning
6. GP — Re-register
If you moved after receiving status, register with a new GP (family doctor) at your new address.
- Registration is free
- No documents required — a GP cannot refuse you
- Find your nearest GP at nhs.uk/find-a-gp
If you have chronic conditions or take medication, re-registering is important to continue your treatment.
7. NI Number — Sent Automatically
National Insurance Number is needed for work and claiming benefits.
How to get it:
- HMRC automatically sends the NI Number by post after you receive status
- Usually arrives within 4-8 weeks
- You can check at gov.uk/national-insurance-number
If it hasn't arrived after 8 weeks:
- Call 0800 141 2075 (free)
- Monday to Friday, 8:00am-6:00pm
You need your NI Number for Universal Credit, for work, and for your pension.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to move out after getting refugee status?
42 days. You must leave your Home Office accommodation (hotel) within 42 days of receiving your status decision.
Do I get benefits after refugee status?
Yes. Apply for Universal Credit on the very first day — the first payment takes 5 weeks. You may also be eligible for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction.
Can I work after getting refugee status?
Yes. You have full right to work with no restrictions. You need your eVisa and NI Number (comes automatically from HMRC).
What is eVisa and why do I need it?
eVisa is your digital immigration status, replacing the physical BRP from 2025. You need it to prove your right to work, rent a property, open a bank account and claim benefits.
How do I get my NI Number?
HMRC automatically sends your NI Number by post after you receive status. It usually arrives within 4-8 weeks. If it hasn't arrived — call 0800 141 2075 (free).