Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme
Contents
What is the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme (ACRS)
The Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme (ACRS) opened on 6 January 2022.
The scheme is one of the routes to settlement for Afghan Citizens who supported the UKs efforts in Afghanistan.
The scheme will prioritise those who have assisted the UK efforts in Afghanistan and stood up for values such as democracy, women’s rights, freedom of speech, and rule of law.
It will also prioritise vulnerable people, including women and girls at risk, and members of minority groups at risk (including ethnic and religious minorities and LGBT+)
There are three pathways under ACRS
Pathway 1
For those eligible persons who arrived in the UK under the evacuation programme.
Pathway 2
For those eligible persons who have been referred for resettlement to the UK by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
Pathway 3
For those eligible persons eligible for resettlement from 3 groups: British Council contractors, GardaWorld Contractors and Chevening Alumni, under phase one.
You can find out more information about the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme on gov.uk.
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 Citizens Resettlement Scheme. 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 Citizens Resettlement Scheme 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 ACRS?
The Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme is not application based. Eligible persons will be prioritised for resettlement under one of the three pathways. You can find out more information about the ACRS pathways on GOV.UK.
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 Many Afghans did the UK evacuate?
In August 2021 the UK government evacuated 15,000 people from Afghanistan under Operation PITTING.
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 Citizens Resettlement Scheme 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.