Can Asylum Seekers Work in the UK?
Got status? You can work without restrictions — you need eVisa and NI Number. Asylum seeker? After 12 months of waiting you can apply for Permission to Work (skilled occupations only). Minimum wage £12.21/hour.
27 March: illegal working = suspension of asylum support
2 March: refugee status for 30 months (not 5 years)
Occupations: Skilled Occupations RQF 6+ (doctors, nurses, engineers, IT, scientists, architects, lawyers).
Self-employment is prohibited. Volunteering is allowed.
1. Download form PTW1 from gov.uk
2. Fill in ALL fields (incomplete = refusal)
3. Send to [email protected]
2. Log in via UKVI account
3. "Get a share code" → "Right to work"
4. Copy the code and send it to your employer
2. They will schedule an interview at Jobs & Benefits office
3. Bring ARC, Bail 201 and documents
4. NI Number arrives by post in 4-8 weeks
✓ 48 hours/week — maximum
✓ 28 days — paid holiday
✓ Safe conditions, no discrimination, sick pay
Frequently asked questions
Can I work as an asylum seeker?
By default, no. But if your case has been under consideration for 12+ months and the delay is not your fault, you can apply for Permission to Work. Work is limited to occupations from Appendix Skilled Occupations (RQF 6+): doctors, engineers, IT, scientists. Self-employment is prohibited.
What if I got refugee status?
Full right to work without restrictions. Any profession, any role. You need eVisa and NI Number. From 2 March 2026, status is granted for 30 months (not 5 years) with review.
How do I get Permission to Work?
Download form PTW1 from gov.uk, fill in ALL fields and send to [email protected] (first application) or [email protected] (repeat).
How do I get an NI Number?
Call 0800 141 2075 (free). They will schedule an interview at a Jobs & Benefits office. Bring ARC and documents. NI Number arrives by post in 4-8 weeks. You can apply with ARC — no need to wait for status.
What is a Share Code?
A one-time code for your employer — confirms your right to work. Get it at gov.uk/prove-right-to-work. Only after receiving status (eVisa). Valid for 90 days, you can get a new one for free.
What are my rights at work?
Minimum £12.21/hour, maximum 48 hours/week, 28 days paid holiday, safe conditions, no discrimination. Your employer cannot threaten you with deportation. Complaint: Work Rights Centre (free).
What is Appendix Skilled Occupations?
From 26 March 2026, asylum seekers with Permission to Work can take jobs from the Appendix Skilled Occupations list at RQF Level 6+ (graduate-level). This replaced the old Shortage Occupation List. Includes: doctors, engineers, IT, scientists, teachers, nurses, architects, accountants. Some mid-skilled roles (RQF 3-5) temporarily open until end of 2026.
When can asylum seekers work in the UK?
After waiting 12 months for an asylum decision, and only if the delay is not your fault. You must apply for Permission to Work using form PTW1. The 12-month rule has not changed in 2026. Once granted refugee status — you can work immediately in any job.