Asylum support refused — what to do
It's scary, but it can be solved. You have 3 parallel paths: appeal (3 days), a new application with new circumstances, or Schedule 10 (if you are on immigration bail). On this page — which one to choose and where to get help while everything is being sorted.
The Home Office often makes decisions that the Tribunal later overturns — 63% of appeals represented by ASAP win. A Home Office decision does not mean it's final.
Below are three paths. You can act on all three at the same time. Working in parallel increases your chances.
If you were refused less than 3 days ago — call ASAP 020 3716 0283 today. They have a ready system to submit an appeal in time.
If the 3 days have already passed — don't give up. You can submit late with an explanation. And in parallel — a new application.
Three paths — which one to choose
Path 1: Appeal to the Asylum Support Tribunal
Chances: 63% win (when represented by ASAP), plus 19% are sent back for review.
Cost: free (form E09 + ASAP represents you).
Deadline: the Tribunal must receive your form within 3 days.
Full appeal instructions →
Path 2: New application with new circumstances
• New medical documents
• New evidence of destitution (the landlord is now definitely evicting you)
• Further submissions on your asylum claim have been made
• Your family situation has changed (a child was born, divorce)
Cost: free (new ASF1 through Migrant Help).
Chances: depend on how significant the new circumstances are. Sometimes it is effectively a review without an appeal.
How to submit ASF1 again →
Path 3: Schedule 10 (last resort)
Cost: free — but you almost always need a solicitor (form BAIL 409).
Chances: low — this is a 'last resort'. But if there are no other options, it's worth trying.
More about Schedule 10 →
Act in parallel
For example: while ASAP prepares an appeal (Path 1), you can prepare new documents for a new application (Path 2). If the appeal wins — the new application is not needed. If it loses — you already have an alternative ready.
The main thing is not to sit idle for 3 days. Call, gather papers, look for help.
Where to get help while everything is being sorted
Support usually stops from the moment of refusal. These options help you get through the gap:
Free food parcels. Trussell Trust: 0808 208 2138 to find the nearest one. Often you need a 'referral' — a GP, charity, school, or church can give one.
0808 175 3499 — they can find local organisations, sometimes give small hardship grants.
Local advice services + advocacy. Website: refugee-action.org.uk
Mosques, churches, synagogues — many have help programmes (food, temporary shelter). You don't need to be 'one of them' — most help everyone.
Many cities have local destitution funds for asylum seekers. Ask Refugee Council or Migrant Help for referrals.
NHS remains free even without asylum support. GP, A&E, prescriptions — all your rights stay.
Can I get support back temporarily (interim relief)
Conditions: high chance of winning the appeal + without support there is a breach of human rights (Article 3 ECHR — inhuman treatment).
How to apply: through a solicitor (not through ASAP — they don't do interim relief). Usually goes to the High Court in parallel with the appeal.
Who helps for free: Civil Legal Aid (if eligible) or charity lawyers (BID, JCWI). Where to look →
Frequently asked questions
What are the three paths after refusal?
1) Appeal to the Asylum Support Tribunal (3‑day deadline). 2) New application with new circumstances. 3) Schedule 10 if you are on immigration bail. You can do them in parallel.
What if the 3 days have already passed?
You can submit a ‘late appeal’ with an explanation of a serious reason (illness, you didn't receive the letter). The chances are lower, but it's worth trying. In parallel — a new application and looking for emergency help.
Will I get support while I appeal?
Usually not — Section 95/98 stops from the moment of refusal. You can ask for interim relief through a solicitor (the court temporarily returns support). Otherwise — emergency charity help.
Where can I get food while everything is being sorted?
Food banks (search via Trussell Trust or call Trussell Trust 0808 208 2138), Refugee Council 0808 175 3499, Refugee Action, mosques / churches, local destitution funds. It's not shameful — it's for situations like this.
Can I work while it's being sorted?
No — except for a narrow case (more than 12 months initial decision + Immigration Salary List). Working without permission will seriously harm both your current and future case.