Apply for asylum
If you face danger at home because of who you are, you can ask for protection — asylum — in the UK. The journey is long, and it can be frightening at every step. Here is a calm, human guide to how it works: where to start, what to expect at the interview, how to live while a decision is pending, and where to find support that is on your side.
In Britain, you can be protected just because you're gay, lesbian, or trans — that's a real legal reason for asylum, not a made-up thing. There's an important court decision (the HJ (Iran) case): nobody can force you to hide just to stay safe. And you don't need to "prove" your orientation with documents — you just need to honestly tell your story. A lawyer can tell you how this works in your situation, for free.
Skybow is not a law firm (we're not an OISC/IAA adviser). This is general info, not advice for your case — for that, talk to a lawyer.
Route
Most important for an LGBT case
Where to get help
Common fears about asylum
No. The Home Office does not inform the authorities in your country that you have claimed asylum — applicant confidentiality is part of the protection. If you are afraid that information could reach your family or authorities back home, tell your lawyer: this is an important part of your story, not a hindrance.
The UK system does not require 'proof' such as certificates or photos. The main thing is to tell your story coherently and honestly: how you realised who you are, how it affected your life, what you fear at home. Correspondence, diaries, testimony from loved ones or organisations can help, but they are not mandatory. Discuss with your lawyer what will strengthen your case.
Many people apply for asylum while already in the country — for example, on a student or seasonal visa that is about to expire. This in itself does not prevent you from asking for protection. The sooner you apply, the better; a registered adviser can assess your specific situation.
Skybow is an information project by Mendee CIC. We are not a registered immigration adviser and do not provide personal legal services. Everything here is general information, not advice on your specific case. Make decisions about your asylum case together with an adviser registered with the government regulator of immigration advisers (OISC/IAA) or a solicitor under the Legal Aid scheme — free help can be found through the organisations above. Laws and practice change: always check with gov.uk and a regulated adviser.