Asylum information guide
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This guide is for people who want to claim asylum in Scotland, as well as those who have already applied and are waiting for a decision. It provides general information only and does not offer individual legal advice.
What is asylum?
Claiming asylum means asking to stay in another country because you would not be safe in your own. You may be at risk of serious harm or human rights violations (known as persecution) because of your race, religion, nationality, political opinions or membership of a political group, or because you belong to a particular social group (such as your gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation).
In the UK, you apply for asylum through the Home Office, the government department responsible for immigration, borders, and security. Home Office caseworkers will review your claim to decide if you qualify for protection. While you are waiting for a decision, you are known as an asylum seeker.
