The UK has announced sweeping asylum reforms, turning refugee status into a temporary category and extending the route to permanent residency to 20 years. The Labour government introduced these changes as part of a tougher stance on immigration, driven by concerns over illegal small-boat arrivals and political pressure from Reform UK. Officials said parts of Denmark’s strict asylum model will be adopted.
Under the new rules, asylum seekers who can work but refuse to, as well as those who break the law, will lose access to government housing and weekly payments. Financial assistance will now be limited to those who contribute to the economy and their communities. Refugee protection will also be temporary, with status reviewed every two and a half years and revoked if the applicant’s home country becomes safe.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the previous system, which effectively offered settlement after five years, will be phased out. She is expected to announce further reforms, including updated guidance on applying Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights. More than 100 charities have condemned the changes, arguing they stigmatize migrants and increase public hostility.
