How to apply

When you apply, the Home Office will work with other government departments to find records of you living in the UK.

None of your information will be shared with immigration enforcement teams.

If you’re in the UK

Apply using the Windrush Scheme application form (UK).

Post it to the address on the form with your supporting documents.

The Windrush helpline can post a paper form to you.

Windrush helpline
commonwealthtaskforce@homeoffice.gov.uk
Telephone: 0800 678 1925
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (except bank holidays)
Find out about call charges

Christmas and New Year opening hours

Date Opening times
Friday 22 December 2023 9am to 3pm
Monday 25 December 2023 Closed
Tuesday 26 December 2023 Closed
Wednesday 27 December 2023 9am to 3pm
Thursday 28 December 2023 9am to 3pm
Friday 29 December 2023 9am to 3pm
Monday 1 January 2024 Closed

If you need help filling in the application form

You can contact We Are Group if you:

  • do not feel confident using a computer or mobile device
  • do not have internet access

We Are Group
Telephone: 0808 196 8496 
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm 
Find out about call charges  

If you’re outside the UK

You must apply using an online form.

Fee

It’s free to apply.

What happens next

The Windrush taskforce will get in touch with you if they have any questions about your application, or if they need more information.

Give your fingerprints and photo

You’ll be asked to provide your fingerprints and photo (‘biometric information’) once you’ve sent in your form. You will not have to pay anything to do this.