Information about Named Sponsorship

We know many people are looking for safety and a chance to rebuild their lives.

We recognise that you may be facing difficult, uncertain or dangerous circumstances, and we are sorry that we cannot offer more direct support.

The UK Government is creating a new Named Community Sponsorship route, which will allow some refugees to be sponsored by communities in the UK.

However, we want to manage expectations and avoid disappointment. Named Community Sponsorship will only be available to a relatively small number of people, and unfortunately most refugees will not be able to come to the UK through this route.

Applications have not yet opened. We currently expect sponsorship applications to open in Spring 2027.

If you know somebody in the UK who would like to sponsor you, you can share our guide for prospective sponsors: How to Welcome Refugees

Who Can Access This Route?

You can read the full government guidance here: refugee eligibility criteria

In summary, to be considered for Named Community Sponsorship, you must:

• Be living outside your country of nationality (or former country of residence if you are stateless).
• Have been living in one of the participating countries before 1 October 2026:
  • Bangladesh
  • Egypt
  • India
  • Kenya
  • Malaysia
  • Pakistan
  • Uganda
• Have been registered with UNHCR or the relevant authorities before 1 October 2026.
  • Further details will be published on how this requirement applies in each country, including where access to registration is limited or unavailable.
• Be recognised as a refugee under the 1951 Refugee Convention. Either:
  • have been verified by UNHCR as meeting the definition
  • Palestinian refugees who are unable to access UNHCR referrals will be assessed through an alternative process and partner (further details to follow).
• Pass UK Government identity, security and suitability checks.
• Be nominated and supported by an approved UK sponsorship group.

Please note: the list of participating countries may change over time. We will update this page if this happens.

Citizens UK does not set these rules. We cannot answer questions or advise on the eligibility of specific individuals or families.

You Must Be Nominated by a UK-Based Sponsor

Under this scheme, refugees will be identified and named by a sponsor based in the UK.

At the moment, there is:

❌ No public application process for refugees overseas

❌ No waiting list

❌ No organisation or matching service that can help find a sponsor for you

At present, if you do not already know a person, community group, charity, faith group or other organisation in the UK that wishes to sponsor you, it is unlikely that Named Community Sponsorship will be available to you.

If you do have someone in the UK who wishes to sponsor you, please direct them to our information for sponsors so they can begin preparing for the process.

Refugee Study and Refugee Work Routes:

The UK Government is also developing separate sponsorship routes for universities and employers. However, refugees will not be able to apply directly. Instead, eligible people will need to be identified and referred through organisations approved to deliver those routes.

We are unable to refer people into the process.

Beware of Scams

Be cautious of anyone who:

• Promises sponsorship in exchange for payment
• Claims to have special access to the scheme
• Guarantees approval
• Requests money to secure sponsorship or a visa

No person or organisation is allowed to charge refugees for sponsorship through this scheme.

If Named Community Sponsorship becomes available to you, applications will be managed through accredited organisations and the UK Government.

Other Ways to Reach Safety in the UK

Depending on your circumstances, there may be other routes available.