Immigration explained: Migrants, refugees, and visas defined

Migration is a topic that is never far from the headlines and political debate.

We have made a quick guide to some of the common terms to help you navigate the subject.

The move can be temporary or permanent, between different countries or within the same country.

It could be because they are forced to move by war, famine, natural disaster or persecution, or because they have chosen to study elsewhere or seek a better job and better life.

This is a more specific term, and sometimes people will use the terms legal immigrant and illegal immigrant.

Legal immigrants are those who entered the country with permission, whereas illegal immigrants arrived without it.

Some illegal immigrants make claims for asylum once they have arrived.

In the UK, all applications for asylum are processed by the Home Office.

Asylum seekers do not have the same rights as a refugee or a British citizen while they wait for a decision. For example, asylum seekers are not allowed to work.

Successful applicants are given refugee status, but the applicant usually has to leave the country if their claim is rejected and any appeal is unsuccessful.

This term is often used to describe people forced to move because of war, famine or natural disaster, but the legal definition covers only those in fear of persecution.

In the UK, the Home Office decides which asylum seekers should get refugee status.

A grant of refugee status lasts for five years and means the person can stay, work and receive some benefits.

After that time, they can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.

These children arrive in the country without an adult taking responsibility for them and will usually be taken into the care system by the local authority they are first reported to.

In contrast, separated children are apart from their parents or primary caregiver, but may be with other adults in their family.

This is migration based solely on economic factors and, according to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, is "not in anyway related to the refugee definition".

Usually the visa will be valid for a specified period of time and relate to a specific reason for entering or leaving the country, such as travel, study or work.