Permission to Work on a Tier 4 Student VISA and Applying for Asylum

Hello guys,

I'm posting this as K because I would like to keep my identity hidden.

I came here to the UK on a Tier 4 Student VISA with 20-hours a week work limit for my postgraduate studies. My course starts next week, but I'm planning on applying for asylum this week since I publicly renounced my religion, which is punishable by death back in my home country.

The thing is that I'm being fully sponsored by my government to study in the UK, so with this change in circumstances I cannot enroll in my university course as the funding has been withdrawn by my home government.

I would like to ask if I will be allowed to work once I apply for asylum given that I will not (or cannot) maintain my student status, and hence my VISA will most likely be curtailed. This is impotrant for me know, so that I can plan how to sustain myself. I do not want to be housed in a government facility. I would like to provide for myself.

Kindly, if you have a knowledge on the subject, then please advise me here.

Best,

You need professional advice on your options.

I recommend contacting an organisation that specialises in asylum advice. Your university can refer you to a local one.

If you claim asylum your student visa will be curtailed either by the university withdrawing the COS or the Home Office cancelling your visa. Will you be allowed to work - usually that is a no.
Claims of this type are difficult and particularly given your government and their sponsorship of your studies, that will add another layer to the already complicated situation.

I would suggest you seek not only professional advice but find a supportive group that understands the position and can advise you.