The Afghan Relocation and Assistance Policy (ARAP) is open to Afghans who were employed by the UK government in Afghanistan. The eligibility for this scheme is based on the level of risk in which staying in Afghanistan would be (as a result of their occupation). Those who are eligible to come to the UK under ARAP will be able to bring certain family members with them to the UK and will be able to apply for indefinite leave to remain.
Under the Afghan Citizens’ Resettlement Scheme (ACRS), the UK government is pledging to resettle up to 20,000 Afghan refugees over the coming years. The scheme will run on a prioritisation system, whereby vulnerable groups (e.g. women, girls, children, members of minority groups) and those who have shown resistance in some way (e.g. protested against democracy, women’s rights, and freedom of speech or have helped the UK’s efforts) will be prioritsed. Individuals who are resettled through ACRS will receive indefinite leave to remain in the UK.
The Home Office is assisting British nationals and their family members to return to the UK in various ways. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) operates a global response centre. Those British nationals affected may contact the centre by phoning: (+44)(0)207 008 5000 or (+44)(0)1908 516 666. British nationals in Afghanistan are encouraged to register their presence with the FCDO. The FCDO can assist with travel documentation for those who have lost or do not have their passports or other documentation. They may also issue visa waivers on compassionate grounds. Any British national who has a non-British family member in the region should, at first instance, utilise this service rather than have their relatives apply under the standard Immigration Rules for visas to enter the UK.
Afghan nationals with refugee status in the UK may sponsor certain family members to join them in the UK under the UK family reunion policy. Spouses and children under 18 years of age are generally included in these rules while other family members may apply but will find it more difficult to succeed in their applications. Sponsors should seek advice before considering applications for any family members.