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    • Habitual Residence Test (HRT)
    • Nationals of non-EEA countries
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    • Useful links: Migrants
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Migrants

Who is this section for?

This section is for migrants to the UK.

What does it include?

Information about the benefit rules affecting migrants, and where to go for further help.

How to use this section

The left-hand navigation bar gives you a comprehensive list of the contents of this section. Click on the links to go to each page.  Some key benefits are also are described in the boxes below.

NB: This is a very complex area of the law so it is important that you seek specialist advice. You can use our Find an Adviser tool to find a local adviser to help you further.

• European Economic Area (EEA) nationals

  EEA nationals have to be exempt from or meet certain conditions of the Habitual Residence Test to qualify for most benefits.

• Non-European Economic Area (EEA) nationals

  Benefit entitlement for non-European Economic Area nationals will depend upon immigration status.

• Asylum Seekers

  There are special rules about benefits for asylum seekers waiting for a decision on an asylum application.

• Refugees

  Refugees have roughly the same entitlement to apply for benefits as UK citizens.

• Useful Links

  Links to resources and organisations that can provide further information and advice for migrants.