News

Home Office Extends Refugee ‘Move-On’ Period from 28 to 56 Days

6 December 2024

The Home Office is to extend the 28-day 'move-on' period given to newly recognised refugees to leave their asylum accommodation, doubling it to 56 days.

The UK Home Office has announced plans to double the ‘move-on’ period for newly recognised refugees from 28 days to 56 days, allowing them more time to transition out of asylum accommodation. 

This policy change, described as an “interim measure,” will take effect on Monday, 9 December, and will remain in place until June 2025, when it will be reassessed.

The announcement was detailed in a letter to stakeholders, with the Home Office explaining that the six-month pilot will undergo independent evaluation to assess its effectiveness, cost-efficiency, and stakeholder perceptions.

The Local Government Association (LGA) welcomed the change, highlighting that the extended period would help reduce the risk of homelessness and destitution by giving refugees more time to secure housing, find employment, and access essential services.

Robina Qureshi, CEO of Positive Action in Housing, also welcomed the decision but emphasised the need for broader reform:

“While the extension of the move-on period to 56 days is a step in the right direction, it does not resolve the systemic issues refugees face when transitioning to independent living. Many are still left without vital documents or support at the start of this period, putting them at immediate risk of homelessness. We must ensure that alongside this extension, refugees are given the tools and resources they need to rebuild their lives with dignity and safety.”

The policy change signals progress in addressing the challenges faced by newly recognised refugees, but refugee groups continue to call for further reforms to ensure long-term stability and support for those granted safety in the UK.

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