UK reopened resettlement referrals in September, with arrivals dependent on local capacity
The Home Office confirmed on 19 October that referrals were being received; councils must provide accommodation and agree to support families.
On 28 September 2026, the Home Office reopened new UK Resettlement Scheme (UKRS) referrals immediately, expecting the first arrivals before year-end. Around 25% of referrals were expected to involve Afghan women and girls and Palestinian refugees, through established processes involving UNHCR and the International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP).[1]
In a parliamentary answer on 19 October, the Home Office confirmed that it had started receiving referrals for 2026/27. Arrivals depend on participating councils providing accommodation and agreeing to support refugee families. The number resettled also depends on local capacity to receive and integrate them.[2]
UKRS is separate from the new community, study and work sponsorship routes. The expected arrival timetable does not guarantee an individual’s admission or arrival date.[1][2]
Official sources
This article provides general information. Individual applications are subject to the applicable rules and the competent authority’s assessment.