Afghan Resettlement Programme
Contents
What is the Afghan Resettlement Programme (ARP)
The Afghan Resettlement Programme launched on the 1st of March 2025. The ARP brings together the existing resettlement schemes, Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme (ACRS) and Afghan Relocation and Assistance Policy (ARAP), into one pipeline.
This change does not affect how you apply to settle in the UK.
If you have already applied to settle in the UK under the ACRS or ARAP schemes this change does not affect your application and you do not need to reapply. You should wait to hear from your caseworker regarding your application.
You can find further information on the Afghan Resettlement Programme on GOV.UK
For information on ACRS in the NW see our archived Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme Page
For information on ARAP in the NW see our archived Afghan Relocation and Assistance Policy page
Our Work under ACRS
The North West Strategic Migration Partnership (SMP) works with the Home Office and Councils in the North West to facilitate the Afghan Resettlement Programme. We support Councils who deliver the resettlement schemes in the North West.
The North West SMP does not have direct involvement in issuing visa’s or accepting Eligible Persons on to the schemes.
Support from Councils in the North West
If you have been accepted by a Council in the North West as part of the Afghan Resettlement Programme you will be provided with the following:
- Support in sourcing and maintaining a decent home
- Support in setting up household bills and budgeting
- Support to open a bank account
- Support in accessing benefits and employment
- Support in accessing health care
- Support to access education
- Civic orientation
- Three years integration support
FAQ’s
How do I apply for ARP?
The Afghan Resettlement Programme is the bringing together of ACRS and ARAP, to apply for settlement you must meet the criteria and apply through these routes.
Can I bring my family to the UK permanently?
You may be able to bring additional family members to the UK. Learn about how to find a registered immigration adviser on gov.uk who can help you find the right route for your family.
How has the UK resettled Afghans?
Since the evacuation of Kabul under Operation Pitting in August 2021 the UK government have supported over 30,000 eligible Afghan Nationals to settle in the UK. This has been through several routes including Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme, Afghan Relocation and Assistance Policy and the separated families route.
Are Afghan Refugees allowed to work in the UK?
Yes, Afghans who arrived in the UK through ACRS have the same right to work as those born in the UK.
How long is the resettlement programme?
Under the Afghan Resettlement Programme you will receive support from your council, or their provider, for three years.
Can I get a British passport?
To apply for a British Passport you must have British Nationality. You can find out if you are eligible at the GOV.UK page British Passport Eligibility.
Can I become a British Citizen?
If you have had Indefinite Leave Remain for the last year and have lived in the UK for at least 5 years you may be eligible, you can find out more about how apply for British Citizenship on gov.uk.