Overview

This bill proposes to amend the Immigration Rules to allow asylum seekers in the UK to work after waiting six months for a decision on their application. This change aims to reduce the financial hardship often faced by asylum seekers during the lengthy application process.

Description

The Asylum Seekers (Permission to Work) (No. 2) Bill modifies existing Immigration Rules. Specifically, it changes the waiting period before asylum seekers can apply for work permits from one year to six months. The bill also removes restrictions on the types of jobs asylum seekers can take. The definition of "asylum applicant" is clarified to include principal applicants and their adult dependents. The bill applies to England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland and will come into effect two months after it is passed.

Government Spending

The bill's impact on government spending is not explicitly stated. However, it could potentially reduce reliance on public funds for asylum seekers' support if they can work and become self-sufficient sooner. Quantifying this potential saving would require further analysis.

Groups Affected

• Asylum seekers: This bill would positively impact asylum seekers by allowing them to work sooner, improving their financial stability and reducing reliance on government support. The reduced waiting time will improve their quality of life and independence
• Employers: The bill may provide employers with a larger pool of potential workers, potentially filling labor shortages in specific sectors.
• UK Government: The government's spending on asylum support could decrease if more asylum seekers become self-supporting. There may also be administrative costs involved in implementing this change.

Powered by nyModel