Asylum

Immigration and nationality

The right to come to the UK

Only those with 'right of abode' can come without being subject to immigration control. This includes:

British Citizens
Children of British Citizens (under 18s)
Children of parents who are settled (staying here permanently) in the UK (under 18s)

Others are subject to varying controls.

Citizens of European Countries

If you are a citizen of a country within the European Economic Area then you are generally free to enter, work and stay. You can be made to leave if you commit a serious crime. Your existing family are also entitled, as long as they stay together.

The European Economic Area consists of:

Members of the European Union
Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein

You may be asked to show you are entitled to come or stay in the UK:

If you seek a Visa at a British embassy or consular
At arrival at a British airport or seaport or Channel Tunnel station
The Home Office
By the Police or Immigration Officers

You may be asked about your immigration status when applying for:

Benefits
Hospital treatment
Housing
Education
If seeking a marriage licence
Work

Visa

Some citizens will require a visa before they can stay. There is list of 118 countries which can be obtained from the Home Office website.

They are referred to as 'Visa Nationals'. You don't need a Visa if you are from most Commonwealth countries, the USA or Japan.

Permission to come to the UK

The normal procedure is that an application should be made at the nearest British Embassy or consular office. Application forms can also be downloaded from the Foreign Office website. A fee is payable.

The right to come to the UK is regulated by the Immigration Rules. The rules identify several categories for entry:

Students
Visitors
Au pairs
Work or business
Members of the family of one of the above

Contact

Barking and Dagenham Direct:

Tel: 020 8215 3000

Fax: 020 8227 5184

Textphone: 020 8227 5755

Email: 3000direct@lbbd.gov.uk|

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8am - 8pm.

Please note: All enquiries regarding Immigration and Asylum should be made through the Home Office.