Immigration options

Windrush Scheme

What is the Windrush Scheme

The Windrush Scheme enables some people to obtain documents confirming their immigration status, where they already have the right to live in the UK but are unable to prove this.

A person may have the right of abode or indefinite leave to remain but be unable to demonstrate their entitlement to:

• work
• claim benefits
• rent a home
• access other services

The Windrush Scheme can be used to obtain evidence of a person's immigration status. Some people may also be able to make a free application for British citizenship through the scheme.

Who can apply

A person may be able to apply to the Windrush Scheme if they are:

• a Commonwealth citizen who settled in the UK before 1 January 1973 or had the right of abode
• the child of a Commonwealth citizen who settled in the UK before 1 January 1973 or had the right of abode, provided the child was born in the UK or arrived in the UK before turning 18
• a person of any nationality who settled in the UK before 31 December 1988

The application is free of charge.

Further information on eligibility is available in the Home Office guidance on Windrush Scheme eligibility.

How to apply 

The Home Office has established a dedicated Windrush helpline to provide information and assistance.

A person may also wish to obtain advice from a regulated immigration adviser, particularly where:

• they are unsure what immigration status they should have
• they have difficulty proving their residence in the UK
• they believe they may be entitled to British citizenship

Some Commonwealth citizens may be able to make a free application for British citizenship through the Windrush Scheme.

See the Home Office information about the Windrush Scheme for details on application process.

Windrush Compensation Scheme

Compensation may be available where a person experienced losses because they could not prove their right to live in the UK. This may include losses related to:

• being unable to work
• access benefits
• access housing
• access NHS treatment

Compensation may also be available where a person was detained or otherwise affected by immigration enforcement action.

See the Home Office information about the Windrush Compensation Scheme for further details.

Getting help

A person may wish to seek advice from a regulated immigration adviser before making an application under the Windrush Scheme.

See our information about finding immigration and asylum advice.

Some organisations receive government funding through the Windrush Compensation Advocacy Support Fund to help people make compensation claims. Funding is available until 31 March 2027. 

People who need help with a compensation claim can also contact the Windrush Compensation Scheme Help Team or a funded advocacy organisation.

Page updated: 05 August 2026