Christmas and New Year closure information
Our council offices and phone lines will close at 4pm on Wednesday 24 December and reopen at 9am on Monday 5 January 2026.
See our service arrangements for customers during this time.
General information
About asylum applications and what to do afterwards.
We are working towards becoming a Council of Sanctuary. For more information visit Norwich City of Sanctuary.
Immigration status and asylum applications
- the national government decides if you can stay in the UK and if your asylum application is accepted
- the Home Office manages your support while they decide on your asylum claim, including your accommodation
Accommodation and financial support
If you have no other support, the government will provide you with accommodation. In Norwich, this is through companies like Serco and Cromwood.
For any issues please contact Migrant Help who always offer free advice and support.
After receiving refugee status
If you get refugee status, discretionary leave or humanitarian protection, you will have similar rights to UK citizens. You will need your eVisa and sharecodes to access services, housing or work.
If you get refugee status, or another type of Leave to Remain, you must leave your asylum accommodation within 56 days. You will get a letter from Serco or Cromwood telling you the date you need to leave.
Support services
If you have received refugee status, or another type of Leave to Remain, you should receive a call from Migrant Help, who will refer you for move on support. This might come from:
- the people from abroad team at Norfolk County Council
- Reed in partnership.
Our housing advice team can help with housing and other services once you have refugee status.
Please visit support for housing and benefits for more information.
What to do if your asylum claim is rejected
- you must leave your accommodation and your financial support will stop
- get help from the the people from abroad team or another agency for advice on what to do next
