Can asylum seekers work in the UK?

Asylum seekers cannot work when they first claim asylum. After 12 months, if a decision on the claim has not been made and the delay is not the applicant's fault, they can apply for permission to work. If granted, they can only work in jobs on the Shortage Occupation List.

What is the Shortage Occupation List?

The Shortage Occupation List is a list of occupations where the UK has a recognised shortage of workers. Asylum seekers who receive permission to work are restricted to these roles. The list includes certain healthcare, engineering, and other specialist roles.

Can asylum seekers volunteer?

Yes. Asylum seekers can volunteer at any time, without needing permission. Volunteering must be genuinely voluntary — you cannot receive payment other than reasonable expenses.

Can asylum seekers be self-employed?

No. Even if granted permission to work, asylum seekers can only take employment in roles on the Shortage Occupation List. Self-employment is not permitted.

Right to Work for Asylum Seekers UK 2026

Asylum seekers in the UK cannot work immediately but can apply for permission to work after 12 months if their claim has not been decided and the delay is not their fault. Permission is limited to roles on the Shortage Occupation List.

The General Rule

When you claim asylum in the UK, you do not have the right to work. The government's position is that asylum seekers are supported through the asylum support system while their claims are being processed. The official guidance is on the GOV.UK asylum page.

Permission to Work After 12 Months

You can apply for permission to work if:

Your asylum claim has been outstanding for 12 months or more
The delay in deciding your claim is not your fault
You have not withdrawn your claim or been found to have acted in bad faith

To apply, write to the Home Office requesting permission to work. Include your full name, date of birth, Home Office reference number, and the date you claimed asylum. Your solicitor can help you with this.

Shortage Occupation List Restriction

If permission is granted, you can only work in roles on the Shortage Occupation List. This is a significant restriction. The list includes certain:

Healthcare roles (nurses, doctors, care workers)
Engineering roles
IT specialist roles
Certain scientific roles

You cannot work in roles outside this list, and you cannot be self-employed. The current Shortage Occupation List is published on GOV.UK.

What Does Not Count as Your Fault

The delay in your claim must not be attributable to you. Delays that are not your fault include:

The Home Office taking a long time to schedule your interview
The Home Office taking a long time to make a decision after the interview
Administrative backlogs

Delays that may be considered your fault include:

Failing to attend appointments or interviews
Failing to provide requested information
Providing false or misleading information

Volunteering

You can volunteer at any time during the asylum process. Volunteering is a good way to stay active, learn new skills, improve your English, and build community connections.

Key rules for volunteering:

It must be genuinely voluntary — you cannot receive wages or a salary
You can receive reasonable expenses (such as travel costs and meals)
It should be for a charity, voluntary organisation, or public body

See our community groups guide for organisations that welcome volunteers.

If You Receive Refugee Status

If your asylum claim succeeds and you receive refugee status or humanitarian protection, you have full, unrestricted work rights. You can:

Work for any employer in any role
Be self-employed
Start a business

Employers can verify your right to work using the Home Office online checking service.

Employer Considerations

If you are an employer considering hiring an asylum seeker who has permission to work:

Check their permission-to-work letter from the Home Office
Verify the role is on the Shortage Occupation List
You do not need to be a licensed sponsor
The asylum seeker has the same employment rights as any other worker (minimum wage, holiday, sick pay)

See our right to work check guide and employment rights guide.

The Debate on Asylum Seekers' Right to Work

The restriction on asylum seekers working is a subject of ongoing debate in the UK. Many organisations, businesses, and charities argue that allowing asylum seekers to work sooner would benefit the economy, reduce support costs, and improve mental health. As of 2026, the 12-month rule with Shortage Occupation List restriction remains in place.

Next Steps

If your claim has been outstanding for more than 12 months, speak to your solicitor about applying for permission to work. For official information, visit GOV.UK.

Related guides:

Right to Work for Asylum Seekers in the UK 2026