UK asylum system faces massive overhaul

The government has announced a wide-ranging package of reforms to the UK’s asylum system, described by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood as the most significant changes to illegal migration policy in recent decades. The plans draw heavily on measures introduced in Denmark and include temporary refugee status, limits on appeal rights and potential visa bans for countries that do not accept returns.

Under the proposals, people granted asylum would receive temporary protection reviewed every 30 months, with the possibility of removal if their home country is deemed safe. A 20-year residency requirement would apply before refugees could seek permanent status, compared with the current five years. Ministers also plan to create a new “work and study” visa route, allowing people who find employment or enter education to earn settlement more quickly. Only those on this route would be able to sponsor relatives.

The government intends to replace multiple avenues for appeal with a single consolidated process, supported by a new independent appeals body. Legislation will be introduced to narrow how human rights protections under Articles 8 and 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights apply in migration cases, giving greater weight to public interest arguments and limiting family-life claims to immediate relatives. The Modern Slavery Act would also be tightened to restrict late trafficking claims.

Plans also include ending the automatic duty to provide housing and financial support for asylum seekers, with help reserved for those who are destitute. Individuals with permission to work who do not do so, or who refuse removal directions, may have support withdrawn. Asylum seekers with assets could be required to contribute to their accommodation costs.

Alongside restrictions, the government intends to expand safe and legal routes through community sponsorship and an enlarged displaced-talent scheme, with an annual cap based on local capacity. Those using these pathways would have a streamlined ten-year route to settlement.

Countries that do not co-operate with returns could face visa penalties, including suspension of visa services. The Home Office has identified Angola, Namibia and the Democratic Republic of Congo as potential early targets if co-operation does not improve.

The package also features increased use of technology, including wider trials of AI-based age-assessment tools and the introduction of a digital ID system aimed at tightening right-to-work checks.

Unless otherwise linked, headlines are front pages on 18/11/2025.