§ Mr. LidingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department in what circumstances(a) asylum seekers, (b) persons granted asylum, (c) persons granted exceptional leave to remain and (d) other persons subject to immigration control may lawfully work in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement. [121812]
§ Mrs. RocheThe circumstances vary according to the category.
Asylum seekers who have not received a first decision on their asylum application within six months may apply to the Home Office for permission to work. Where written permission is granted, they will be able to take employment lawfully.
Persons granted asylum are given indefinite leave to remain in the United Kingdom and as such have no restriction attached to their stay. They may seek whatever employment they wish and they do not need to seek permission from the Immigration Authorities to take employment.
77WPersons granted exceptional leave to remain are free to seek employment within the limit of their leave to remain. They do not need to seek permission from the Immigration Authorities in order to do so.
There are a considerable number of categories under which persons subject to immigration control may lawfully engage in employment. Details of the various categories which permit employment and self-employment within the Immigration Rules, and the conditions attached to leave granted under those categories, are set out in the Statement of Changes in Immigration Rules, HC 395. In addition, there are a number of concessions that operate outside the Rules, under which those who meet the requisite criteria may lawfully take employment. Details of the various concessions are contained in the Immigration Directorate's Instructions. Copies of the Rules and the Instructions are available in the Library on the Home Office website: www.homeoffice.gov.uk/ind/hpg.htm.