The UK government is implementing new rules to curb illegal migration. According to the new law, those who have arrived in the country through illegal routes and sought asylum will only be able to apply for permanent residency after having lived there for 20 years.
According to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, the new rules will cover those who arrived by boat, in lorries, or those who applied for asylum after their visa expired. This will make the UK the European country with the longest wait for a settlement permit. Previously, Denmark held the lead in this regard with an 8-year requirement.
The new rules will also affect legal asylum seekers: they will be able to apply for permanent settlement after 10 years.
It is also envisaged that asylum seekers who do not wish to work or who have broken the law will be deprived of financial aid, social housing, and benefits. Refugee status will be reviewed every 30 months, and those from countries deemed safe will be repatriated.
The minister emphasized that if strict measures are not taken against illegal migration, there is a risk of division within the country.
In January and June 2025, 111,000 people sought asylum from the UK. In the first quarter of the year alone, over 172,000 people were granted permission to reside.
