What are the main routes for Afghan nationals to come to the UK?

The main routes are the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) for those who worked with the UK government, the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme (ACRS) for vulnerable Afghans, asylum claims, and standard visa routes such as Skilled Worker, Student, and Family visas. The resettlement schemes are the most significant routes specifically for Afghan nationals.

Do Afghan nationals need a TB test for a UK visa?

Yes. Afghanistan is on the Home Office list of countries requiring tuberculosis screening. You must get tested at an IOM-approved clinic. Given the situation in Afghanistan, testing arrangements may be available in neighbouring countries such as Pakistan or Iran.

Is Afghanistan a majority English-speaking country?

No. Afghan applicants must prove their English language ability through an approved SELT test unless exempt by route (for example, asylum or resettlement). English tests may be taken in neighbouring countries if unavailable in Afghanistan.

What support is available for Afghans arriving in the UK?

Afghans arriving through ARAP or ACRS receive local authority support including accommodation, English language classes, employment support, and benefits access. The Afghan community in the UK, charities like the Refugee Council, and local Afghan associations also provide support. Those who arrived through the 2021 evacuation continue to receive resettlement assistance.

Moving to the UK from Afghanistan: Guide 2026

The situation in Afghanistan since August 2021 has driven significant migration to the UK. The UK government operates two specific resettlement schemes for Afghan nationals: ARAP (for those who worked with British forces) and ACRS (for vulnerable Afghans). Beyond these schemes, Afghan nationals can also apply through standard visa routes. This guide covers the available pathways, document requirements, and support available.

Resettlement Schemes

Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP)

ARAP provides relocation to the UK for Afghan nationals who worked for or with the UK government in Afghanistan, including interpreters, locally employed staff, and those in sensitive roles. Eligible applicants and their immediate family members receive ILR on arrival. Applications are assessed by the Ministry of Defence.

Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme (ACRS)

The ACRS aims to resettle up to 20,000 vulnerable Afghans over several years. Priority is given to women and girls, religious minorities, and those who supported the UK or international community. Referrals come through UNHCR and the UK government — you cannot apply directly.

Standard Visa Routes

Afghan nationals can also apply for UK visas through the standard immigration system:

Skilled Worker visa. Requires a job offer from a UK licensed sponsor at the minimum salary threshold.
Family visa. If your spouse or partner is a British citizen or has settled status, you can apply for a spouse visa.
Student visa. With a CAS from a licensed UK institution. See the student visa guide.
Asylum. Afghan nationals who are in the UK or who reach the UK can claim asylum based on a well-founded fear of persecution.

Document Requirements

Passport. An Afghan passport (tazkira alone is not sufficient for most visa routes, though resettlement schemes may make allowances for document difficulties).
TB test. Required. Afghanistan is on the designated list. If testing is not available in Afghanistan, you may be able to test in Pakistan (Islamabad, Lahore) or Iran.
English language. Required for Skilled Worker (B1) and spouse visa (A1) routes. Not required for resettlement schemes or asylum. Tests can be taken in neighbouring countries.
Police certificate. A criminal record certificate may be required. Given the situation in Afghanistan, the Home Office may waive this requirement or accept alternative evidence.

The Afghan Community in the UK

The Afghan community in the UK has grown significantly since 2021 and is estimated at over 100,000. Major concentrations exist in London (particularly Hounslow, Harrow, and Ealing), Birmingham, Manchester, and several other cities. Community organisations, mosques, and Afghan cultural centres provide support to new arrivals.

Organisations providing support include the Refugee Council, Afghan Association Paiwand, the Afghan and Central Asian Association, and local authority resettlement teams.

After Arrival

Collect your BRP if applicable
Apply for a National Insurance number
Register with a GP
Open a UK bank account
Enrol in English language classes if needed
Contact your local authority resettlement team (if you arrived through ARAP or ACRS)

Path to Settlement and Citizenship

Those arriving through ARAP receive ILR immediately. ACRS arrivals also receive ILR. After 12 months with ILR, you can apply for British citizenship, subject to meeting the standard requirements including the Life in the UK test and English language at B1.

Those on standard visa routes follow the normal 5-year path to ILR and then citizenship.

Next Steps

If you are eligible for ARAP, apply through the GOV.UK ARAP page. For the ACRS, referrals are made through UNHCR. For standard visa routes, explore the Skilled Worker visa or spouse visa depending on your circumstances.