Home Office asylum support

How to apply for support

Making an application

Applications for section 95 and section 4 support should be made to the Home Office using an ASF1 form.

The ASF1 form is available on the government website. Migrant Help can assist with completing and submitting an application.

Requests for section 98 emergency support will usually be considered when an asylum claim is made. If a person has already claimed asylum and later requires emergency accommodation, they should contact Migrant Help.

Applications for section 96 additional support should be made using an ASF2 form. The form can be submitted directly to the Home Office or with assistance from Migrant Help.

Further information about applying for asylum support is available on GOV.UK.

When a decision will be made

The time taken to make a decision will depend on the type of support being requested:

• Section 98 support: the Home Office aims to make a decision and provide emergency accommodation on the same working day. 
• Section 95 support: decisions can take several weeks. During this period, a person may be able to access section 98 emergency support. If a decision is delayed, applicants should contact Migrant Help or the Home Office.
• Section 4 support: decisions should normally be made within five working days, unless the Home Office requires further information from the applicant.

Page updated: 14 July 2026