Coming to the UK
Preparing to leave is scary, especially when you can't explain why to anyone. Here's a calm guide on how to get ready safely: what to take, how to protect your phone and messages, how to carefully preserve what proves your story, and where to get help even before you arrive.
Skybow provides information, but does not make decisions for you or replace a lawyer. If you are planning to seek protection in the UK, contact an organisation from the list below or a registered adviser as early as possible — they will tell you what matters in your specific situation.
This is general information, not legal advice. Skybow is not a registered immigration adviser (OISC/IAA).
Your path to the UK — step by step
Before you leave
On the way
The journey may go through countries where being yourself is also unsafe. Do not carry anything that could expose you at other borders — keep it in an encrypted cloud or with a trusted person instead. If you can choose your route, think about safety first. Where and when to ask for protection is an important question; discuss it with an organisation from the list below or with an adviser before you leave if possible.
At the border
You can ask for asylum at the border when you arrive or later — the main thing is to do it as early as possible and tell the truth. You are entitled to an interpreter. If you are not ready to give full details on the spot, you can say you will explain the reasons later, in a safe environment. Do not forge documents or repeat someone else's "story" — honesty is the most important thing for your case. If you are detained or something goes wrong, ask to contact Migrant Help and a lawyer.
Next — asylum
Once you are in the UK, the asylum process begins. We have laid it out calmly step by step — the route, the interview, evidence, and where to get help.
Where to get help
Common fears about arriving
Your request for protection must be considered — you cannot simply be sent back to a country where you are in danger. The border can be scary and chaotic; stick to the truth, ask for an interpreter and the chance to contact Migrant Help or a lawyer. If the decision seems unfair, you can challenge it — but better with a registered adviser.
It is better not to carry anything that could expose you at the borders of countries you travel through. Save your evidence in advance — in an encrypted cloud, in email, or with a trusted person — so you can access it once you are safe. An adviser can tell you exactly what will be useful for your case.
You do not have to tell everything right away. It is important to say you are seeking protection as early as possible — but you can explain the reasons in detail later, in a calm and safe environment, ideally with a lawyer and interpreter. The main thing is not to make things up and not to contradict yourself.
Skybow is an information project by Mendee CIC. We are not a registered immigration adviser (OISC/IAA) and do not provide personal legal services. Everything here is general information, not advice for your specific case or route. Make decisions together with an adviser registered with the regulator (OISC/IAA) or with an organisation from the list above; if you are in danger before leaving, contact Rainbow Railroad or UNHCR. Laws and practices change — always check gov.uk.