Guidance

Returning to your home country voluntarily: how the service works

An overview of the Voluntary Returns Service (VRS) process, what happens once an application is received and practical information for applicants.

• From: Home Office
• Published: 4 October 2022
• Last updated: 5 December 2025 — See all updates

Documents

Process for returning home voluntarily

PDF, 125 KB, 1 page

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Process for returning home voluntarily (accessible version)

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Practical information for applicants

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Details

A summary of the Voluntary Returns Service (VRS) process including:

• what to expect at each phase once you have submitted your application
• additional information about baggage allowance, travelling with pets, coronavirus, medical support and more

Find out how to get help after you return from the UK.

Published 4 October 2022

Last updated 5 December 2025 + show all updates

1. 5 December 2025

   Added a link to the Get help after you return from the UK page.

2. 25 July 2024

   'Practical information for applicants': Financial and accommodation support section updated to remove guidance saying support will remain in place until departing the UK.

3. 17 May 2023

   Clarified the eligibility criteria.

4. 19 January 2023

   Added a new section to the practical information for applicants headed 'Continuation of financial / accommodation support'.

5. 4 October 2022

   First published.