UK Government Unveils Sweeping Asylum Overhaul to Curb Migration

The UK government has announced a major new plan to limit refugee status. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood defended the controversial measures on Sunday. She stated that irregular migration is currently tearing the country apart.

The reforms are modelled on Denmark’s strict asylum system. They aim to stop the thousands of small boat crossings from northern France. This issue has been a significant political challenge for the government.

Key Changes to Refugee Status and Benefits

According to the Home Office, refugee status will be drastically reduced. Currently, it is granted for five years. The new plan will cut this to just 30 months.

This temporary protection will be subject to regular review. Refugees will be forced to return home once their countries are deemed safe. The wait to apply for indefinite leave to remain will also extend to 20 years.

A statutory duty to support asylum seekers will be revoked. This law was introduced in 2005. Housing and financial allowances will no longer be guaranteed and will become discretionary.

Broader Impact and Political Reaction

The government says the reforms will make the UK less attractive to migrants. It will also become easier to remove those with no right to stay. New legislation will limit the use of human rights claims to block deportations.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated the changes will block endless appeals. He also promised to scale up removals. The opposition Conservatives, however, criticized the plan as merely tinkering with the edges.

The Refugee Council branded the proposals harsh and unnecessary. Its chief executive warned the plans will not actually deter Channel crossings. He urged the government to allow refugees to build secure lives.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the main change to UK refugee status?

The government will reduce the initial grant of refugee status from five years to 30 months. This temporary status will be regularly reviewed. The goal is to repatriate individuals once their home country is considered safe.

How will asylum seeker benefits change?

Automatic support for asylum seekers will end. Housing and weekly financial allowances will no longer be a legal right. Support will become discretionary and can be denied under certain conditions.

Why is the government modelling its policy on Denmark?

Denmark’s coalition government has implemented some of Europe’s strictest migration policies. British officials recently visited the country. Successful asylum claims there are now at a 40-year low.

What has the political reaction been?

The plans have faced criticism from multiple sides. The opposition says the changes are insufficient. Refugee charities and some lawmakers have condemned the measures as overly harsh and unnecessary.

How many people have arrived by small boat this year?

Official figures show more than 39,000 people have arrived on small boats in 2025. This number is higher than the total for all of 2024. It remains lower than the record set in 2022.