Refugee Hotel Stay Period to 56 Days
The Home Office has doubled the time newly recognized refugees can remain in asylum accommodation, addressing homelessness concerns and system pressures.
- The UK government has temporarily increased the 'move-on' period for newly recognized refugees from 28 to 56 days, effective until June 2025.
- The change aims to reduce homelessness among refugees, as the previous 28-day period often left them without housing or financial support.
- The decision follows a surge in asylum decisions, with the number of processed applications rising from 6,000 in June to 23,000 in September 2024.
- Charities and local councils have welcomed the move, citing its potential to ease pressure on homelessness services and improve refugee support during winter.
- The extension is part of a broader effort to address systemic issues in the asylum process, including a backlog of claims and increased Channel crossings this year.