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If you have been given refugee status or humanitarian protection in the UK, and your initial permission to stay here will expire before the new system of 'earned citizenship' comes into force (scheduled for July 2011), you will be able to apply for settlement and British citizenship under the current rules.
Read More (takes you to the external UK Border Agency website).
Immigration and asylum are the responsibility of the UK Government's Home Office. The Home Office's responsibilities include the operation of NASS which provides support, accommodation and financial help for asylum seekers while their claim is being considered.
An independent Advisory Board on Naturalisation and Integration (www.abni.org.uk/) has also been established to advise and report on the processes of initial and final assessment of understanding of language and civic structures as required by the Nationality, Immigration & Asylum Act 2002 for those seeking to become British citizens.
The Home Office is also responsible for the management of Immigration Removal Centres, such as Dungavel, which can be used to house people whose asylum claim has been unsuccessful and who await deportation.
A refugee is entitled to the same social and economic rights as any UK citizen. They have full access to medical treatment, education, housing and employment.
The Executive is responsible for devolved issues which relate to asylum seekers who are living in Scottish communities while their immigration application is being processed. This includes integration initiatives, such as English language classes and translation assistance, and services such as health care, education and legal advice. Scottish Government - Refugee and Asylum Seeker (takes you to an external website).
