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<p>Asylum seekers can work in the UK if their claim has been outstanding for 12 months,
through no fault of their own. Those allowed to work are restricted to jobs on the
Shortage Occupation List, which is published by the Home Office and based on expert
advice from the Migration Advisory Committee.</p><p>It is important to distinguish
between those who need protection and economic migrants, who can apply for a work
visa under the Immigration Rules. Our wider immigration policy would be undermined
if migrants could bypass work visa routes by lodging unfounded asylum claims.</p><p>Asylum
seeker right to work is a complex issue and is under review. It is crucial we take
the time to get this right. We are listening carefully to the arguments and considering
the evidence put forward on the issue. Work on the review is ongoing.</p><p>After
six months we provide a 50% contribution to the costs of English language classes
for asylum seekers in certain circumstances. Those granted refugee status are entitled
to access fully funded English language tuition if they are unemployed and in receipt
of certain benefits.</p><p> </p><p>Currently around half of those who seek asylum
in the UK are found not to need international protection. Therefore, rather than invest
in integration for those who may not qualify for international protection, this Government’s
priority is to focus our efforts and resources to support those who most need it.</p>
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