UK Resettlement Scheme (UKRS)
Contents
What is The UK Resettlement Scheme (UKRS)
The UK Resettlement Scheme (UKRS) is a route to settlement in the UK for those who are displaced globally. It is an important part of the UK’s humanitarian response to offer a safe and legal route to vulnerable refugees in need of protection.
The UK Resettlement Scheme is administered by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. They identify and assess eligible persons and refer them through to His Majesty’s Government for consideration.
Refugees under this scheme can arrive from third countries all over the world.
You can find out more information about the UNHCR resettlement process on their website.
You can find out more information about the UK Resettlement Scheme on gov.uk.
Our Work under UKRS
The North West Strategic Migration Partnership (SMP) works with the Home Office and the Councils in the North West to facilitate the UK Resettlement Scheme. We support Councils who deliver the resettlement scheme 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 UK Resettlement Scheme you will be provided with the following:
- A decent home and support to ensure maintenance
- 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
- Five years integration support
FAQ’s
How do I apply for UKRS?
The UK Resettlement Scheme is available to refugees who have been assessed by the UNHCR. There is not an online or paper application process. You can find out more information from the UNHCR Resettlement web page.
Can I bring my family to the UK permanently?
If you have protection status (permission to stay as a refugee or a person with humanitarian protection) you may be able to apply for your family to join you. You can find out more information from the gov.uk page on Family Reunion. You should find a registered immigration adviser to help you with your application.
Do I have to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain?
If your protection status has limited leave to remain, for example 5 years, you may be able to apply for settled status (Indefinite Leave to Remain). You can find out more information from the GOV.UK page Indefinite Leave to Remain (permission to stay as a refugee, humanitarian protection or Discretionary Leave)
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, find out how to apply for British Citizenship on gov.uk.
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 refugees buy property in the UK?
Yes, there are no legal restrictions on buying a house in the UK if you are from abroad.
Do refugees pay for NHS services?
You are exempt from paying for NHS healthcare if you have refugee status in the UK.