Problems with my ARC Card
For up to date information on the ARC card, read this guide.
For up to date information about the ARC card, see this page
Using the ARC
The ARC demonstrates that you are a current asylum claimant awaiting the outcome of your full asylum claim.
Claiming benefits
ARC is not related to Asylum Support Provision. If you are destitute and need support, contact Migrant Help.
Proving your right to work
Your right to work is shown in the Remarks section of your ARC.
If the information on the card is wrong, contact your Home Office asylum case working team.
If you do not receive a new or updated ARC within 5 days of being given the right to work, please contact the team that gave you the right to work.
Your employer must use the Employer Checking Service to check your right to work.
Access to the NHS and healthcare
You do not need an ARC to register with, or receive treatment from, a:
doctor (GP)
dentist
optician
or for accident and emergency treatment.
If you have any difficulty registering or receiving treatment, contact:
• NHS local area team if you are in England
• Patient Advice and Support Services if you are in Scotland
• NHS Advice Direct if you are in Wales
• Health and Social Care Online if you are in Northern Ireland
Banking
The ARC is not proof of identity, and you may need other forms of identity, such as a passport, to open a bank account.
You can request your passport if the Home Office is holding it and you need it to prove your identity.
My ARC has been lost, stolen, seized or damaged
Use the ARC enquiry form to report a lost, stolen seized or damaged ARC. When we get in touch we may ask for some personal details to help identify you. You must provide the ARC reference so we can deal with your request.
My ARC has expired or will expire soon
Contact your Home Office casework team for a replacement.
If your asylum claim has been refused and your appeal has been decided, you will not receive a replacement ARC and the Home Office will not reply to you.
If you have made a further submission, contact the further submissions team, who will decide if you are entitled to an ARC.
More info
Last updated 28 February 2025