The UK government is preparing to announce sweeping asylum reforms aimed at making the country a less attractive destination for illegal migrants. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood says the changes are part of her “moral mission” to fix a system she argues is being abused and is causing deep divisions across the country.
Under the proposed measures, people granted asylum will need to wait 20 years before they can apply for permanent settlement four times longer than the current five-year requirement. Refugee status will also be reviewed every two-and-a-half years, meaning individuals could be asked to return home if their country is deemed safe.
Mahmood says the plan is inspired by Denmark’s strict model, which requires refugees to reapply for temporary residence every two years. She believes the tougher stance will deter dangerous journeys across the Channel and reduce the influence of human smuggling networks.
However, critics argue the new rules risk leaving refugees in prolonged uncertainty. The Refugee Council warns that the reforms could keep people in “limbo and anxious for many years,” making integration and long-term planning extremely difficult.
Mahmood also intends to make housing and financial allowances discretionary, removing support for asylum seekers who already have the right to work but do not use it. She claims criminal gangs are promoting the UK as a destination offering free accommodation and food, and that these “pull factors” must be addressed.
The proposals have drawn mixed political reactions. Conservatives say the reforms don’t go far enough, while Liberal Democrats argue that giving asylum seekers the right to work would reduce dependence on public support. Some Labour MPs have also raised concerns that the tough measures echo far-right rhetoric.
Despite the debate, the government insists the changes are essential for restoring public confidence in the asylum system. Full details of the reforms are expected to be outlined on Monday.
