INTRODUCTION 

If you applied for asylum in the UK before 2 March 2026, different rules apply to your case compared to newer applications. Here we explain UK asylum rules between 28 June 2022 and 2 March 2026

Under this system, individuals granted refugee status or humanitarian protection are usually given a longer initial period of permission to stay. Understanding which rules apply to you is essential, as this affects how long you can remain in the UK and your path to settlement

What Changed on 28 June 2022?

The date 28 June 2022 marks a major change in the UK asylum system following the introduction of the Nationality and Borders Act 2022.

Before 28 June 2022

Asylum claims made before this date were considered under a more established and stable system. Individuals granted refugee status or humanitarian protection were typically given:

• 5 years’ permission to stay
• A more secure and predictable route to settlement
• Less emphasis on how or when the person entered the UK

Although protection could still be reviewed if circumstances changed, there was less structured focus on reassessing whether it was safe for the person to return.

Between 28 June 2022 and 2 March 2026

Asylum claims made during this period are assessed under a newer legal framework introduced by the Nationality and Borders Act 2022.

Under this system:

• Individuals are still usually granted 5 years’ permission to stay
• However, the system places greater emphasis on:
  
  • How the person entered the UK
  • When they claimed asylum
• There is a stronger and more structured approach to reviewing whether protection is still needed, particularly when applying for further permission or settlement

This means that although the length of permission may appear similar, the nature of the protection is more conditional and subject to review.

After 2 March 2026

A further change applies to claims made on or after 2 March 2026, where individuals are usually granted:

• 30 months’ permission to stay, rather than 5 years

👉 This reflects a more temporary approach to protection

Why This Difference Matters

Although many people applying between 28 June 2022 and 2 March 2026 still receive 5 years’ permission to stay, their status is more likely to be reviewed and reassessed over time.

Understanding which system applies to your case is essential, as it can affect your long-term stability and route to settlement in the UK.

Key Difference: Old vs New Asylum Rules

If you applied for asylum before 2 March 2026, you are generally in a more favourable position compared to newer applicants.

• Before 2 March 2026:
  Most individuals are granted 5 years’ permission to stay
• After 2 March 2026:
  Most individuals are granted only 30 months (2.5 years)

This means that people who applied earlier typically benefit from a longer and more stable period of stay, with fewer renewal applications required.

👉 You can read our full guide to the new rules here:
https://fardsolicitors.com/uk-asylum-permission-to-stay-2026/   

WHO DO THESE RULES APPLY TO?

These rules apply to:

• Asylum claims made on or after 28 June 2022
• And before 2 March 2026

If your claim falls within this period, you will usually be assessed under this framework.

If your claim was made before 28 June 2022, slightly different rules may apply, and you should seek legal advice.

HOW LONG CAN YOU STAY IN THE UK?

Under these rules, individuals granted refugee status or humanitarian protection will normally receive:

• 5 years’ permission to stay

This provides a more stable period compared to newer rules introduced in 2026.

WHAT RIGHTS DO YOU HAVE?

If you are granted permission to stay under this system, you will have:

• Immediate and unrestricted right to work
• Access to public funds
• The ability to apply for a refugee integration loan

These rights are designed to support long-term integration in the UK.

WHAT ABOUT FAMILY MEMBERS?

Dependants included in the asylum claim will usually:

• Receive the same 5-year permission to stay
• Be granted permission under the same conditions

In some cases:

• A dependant may be assessed separately if they qualify for protection in their own right

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER 5 YEARS?

Before your permission expires, you can apply for:

• Further permission to stay, or
• Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)

SAFE RETURN REVIEW

When applying for further permission or settlement, the Home Office will assess whether:

• It is safe for you to return to your home country

If protection is still needed, you will usually be allowed to remain in the UK.

 CAN YOU GET LONGER THAN 5 YEARS?

In exceptional circumstances, a longer period may be granted.

This could include:

• Serious medical conditions
• Vulnerability
• Complex personal circumstances

Strong evidence is required.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DO NOT APPLY IN TIME?

If you do not apply before your permission expires:

• You may become an overstayer
• You may lose your right to work and support
• You may face removal from the UK

However, valid reasons for delays may be considered.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Most applicants under this system receive 5 years’ permission to stay
• This applies to claims made before 2 March 2026
• The newer system grants shorter periods (30 months)
• Applying on time is essential

 HOW FARD SOLICITORS CAN HELP

At Fard Solicitors, we provide expert advice on asylum and protection cases, including:

• Initial applications
• Appeals and refusals
• Extensions and settlement

We can help you understand which rules apply to your case and guide you through the process clearly and confidently.