Enforced removal

This page explains what you can expect if your application for asylum is unsuccessful and you do not return to your home country voluntarily.

The United Kingdom is determined to refuse protection to those who do not need it. If you do not have permission to stay here, we will force you to leave.

However, help is available if you choose to return to your home country voluntarily (see Voluntary return for more information).

If you are refused refugee status and do not have permission to stay for any other reason, we will remove you from the United Kingdom. We will give you written notice that we intend to do this. After that we may detain you without warning while we arrange your removal. We may also detain members of your family.

We have a number of immigration removal centres around the country where we detain people awaiting removal.