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Children who Apply for Asylum Alone

This section is only for children who are under 18 years old and applying for asylum by themselves. UKVI use a specific process for claims by unaccompanied asylum seeking children.

MINOR APPLYING FOR ASYLUM: Are you a young refugee making a claim for asylum in your own right?

Note: The asylum process is different for children accompanied by an adult relative. Attended minors under 18 should apply as a dependant in their relative’s application.

Not in the Care of Social Services

Those who are not under social services care can use the walk-in service at the asylum screening unit.

Have an Adult Legally Responsible for You

There may be an adult taking responsibility for your care. If so, they must attend the walk-in service with you at the asylum screening unit.

There are situations where asylum seeking children live with several relatives. The responsibility falls on the closest blood relative willing to take of you. Thus, that particular blood relative must attend the unit with you.

Note: The attending adult must provide some proof of address and a photo ID. This can be a passport or a driving licence.

Do Not Have an Adult Legally Responsible for You

There are some unaccompanied children who apply for asylum alone. They may not have an adult legally responsible for them.

In this case, you should go to a police station or a social services center. You can also walk in (even without an appointment) to the asylum screening unit.

Under the Care of Social Services

Children under care must book an appointment at the asylum screening unit. You can do this by phoning the appointment booking line number.

Screening Units for Asylum Seekers in the United KingdomAsylum Screening Unit Appointments Line
Telephone: 020 8196 4524
Monday to Thursday: 9am to 4:45pm
Friday: 9am to 4:30pm
Information on UK telephone call charges.

Prepare the following information before booking an appointment:

  • Your name, date of birth, and your nationality.
  • The name of your foster carer and their contact information.
  • Specific details of any medical conditions that you may have.
  • The number stamped on your passport or your national identity document.
  • Give the number on your birth certificate if you do not have a passport or identity document.

Note: The GOV.UK website has further information and guidance. The publication ‘processing children’s asylum claims‘ provides further advice for asylum seeking children under 18 years old.

ALSO IN THIS SECTION

How to Apply for Asylum: A section with information on claiming asylum in the United Kingdom.
Asylum Screening Process: What happens at registration and the meeting with immigration officers?
Asylum Screening Interview: Information on the asylum seeker interview and questioning process.
Decision Waiting Time: Your application usually gets decided within 6 following the interview.

Children who Apply for Asylum as an Unaccompanied Minor in the United Kingdom