Get help if you are a refugee or seeking asylum in Wales

If you want to stay in the UK as a refugee, you must apply to claim asylum on GOV.UK.

You must do this when:

• you arrive in the UK, or
• it is no longer safe for you to return to your home country

After claiming asylum, you may be able to access:

• free NHS healthcare, including mental health services
• school places for your children
• Welsh or English language classes 
• support from local services and charities

Once you are granted refugee status, you can:

• apply for housing
• apply for welfare benefits
• work legally in the UK

Find out more about life and how to settle in Wales in our welcome pack for refugees and asylum seekers.

You can get help from:

• Migrant Help: free and confidential advice in your language
• British Red Cross: emergency help such as food and clothing
• Welsh Refugee Council: advice, practical help and community support
• your local authority: other local support if needed

Getting legal help

The Welsh Government cannot give legal advice.

You can find and get advice from a qualified immigration adviser on GOV.UK.

If you arrived under a Ukraine Scheme, support is available in Wales.

You may be able to apply to stay longer in the UK through GOV.UK.