Your immigration status will affect what kind of support you are entitled to. If you are not from the UK you may not be eligible for housing through the local council, though they might be able to offer some emergency accommodation.

This is a complex subject so if you are unsure of your immigration status or eligibility to live in the UK, you should seek specialist immigration advice. It’s best to try and do this before you apply for housing at the council or before you apply for benefits at the job centre.

You can read more about your rights as a migrant on the Shelter website or by calling their helpline – 0808 800 4444 (8am to 8pm Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm at weekends). 

The Law Centres Network, may also be able to help.  All Law Centres offer legal advice in person and some run a telephone advice line, look for the centre closest Law Centre to you and check if they offer immigration and housing advice.

EU Nationals who wish to keep their right to live and work in the UK, must apply to the EU Settlement Scheme by the end of June 2021.

You can find out everything you need to know about the EU Settlement Scheme here and take the quiz to find out if you qualify to apply.

You can make the application yourself but you should get prepared first. Find out how to apply and what you’ll need here.

If you need help with the application, you’ll need to speak with a qualified immigration solicitor.  Find out how to access FREE legal advice.