Asylum Seekers (Permission to Work) Bill | TrackPolitics

Asylum Seekers (Permission to Work) Bill

A Bill to make provision for granting permission to work to asylum seekers who have waited six months for a decision on their asylum application; and for connected purposes.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

30 October 2023

In Plain English

AI-generated

This Bill would let asylum seekers who have waited six months for a decision on their asylum claim apply for permission to work. It also sets out rules on what kinds of work are allowed and how many hours can be worked, with the aim of reducing hardship while the claim is decided and safeguarding the labour market through related safeguards.

Key Points

After six months of waiting, eligible asylum seekers can apply for permission to work.
The Home Office would set rules on acceptable jobs, hours and any other restrictions.
The policy aims to improve self-reliance and reduce reliance on welfare while asylum applications are processed.
Safeguards are included to protect national security, public safety and fair access to jobs.

Progress

The Bill is currently at the 1st reading in the House of Commons, the initial stage of the legislative process. It has not yet undergone detailed scrutiny.

Who is affected?

Asylum seekers in the UK who have waited six months for a decisionPotential employers who may hire asylum seekers under the new permission to workCharities and organisations supporting asylum seekersHome Office and other government staff involved in asylum processingThe wider labour market and related service providers

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

Asylum Seekers (Permission to Work) Bill

23 Mar 2023

The 2022-2023 session of Parliament has prorogued and this Bill will make no further progress.

Documents (1)

Bill 85 2022-23 (as introduced)

BillCommons

24 Oct 2022

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.