Whether the current pilot scheme that provides free bus travel for people who are seeking asylum and live in Scotland using the National En…

The free bus travel pilot scheme will operate until 31 March 2026. We recognise that bus travel has the potential to be transformative for people seeking asylum, who are among the most vulnerable in society. The pilot scheme is providing important evidence of the effect of free bus travel in helping people seeking asylum to access essential services and integrate into society, in line with the New Scots Refugee Integration Strategy.Asylum policy and the regime put in place to support people seeking asylum, is reserved to the UK Government. The evidence being gathered through the pilot will be important in considering our next steps, including assessing the benefits and viability of providing free bus travel for all people seeking asylum on a longer-term basis.People seeking asylum in Scotland can already access the statutory National Concessionary Travel Schemes if they meet the eligibility criteria of aged under 22, aged 60 and over, or with an eligible disability.