The United Kingdom is set to introduce significant changes to its asylum system tomorrow, including imposing limits on how long refugees can remain in the country. UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasized that the reforms aim to tackle irregular migration, particularly small boat crossings and visa overstays.

 

 

The ruling Labour party is positioning itself as tough on immigration amid growing support for Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party. So far this year, nearly 40,000 people have crossed the Channel, and more than 400,000 have claimed asylum since 2021. After coming to power, the Home Office has deported or removed around 50,000 individuals.

Under the proposed changes, refugee protection would be temporary and regularly reviewed, with people returned once their home country is deemed safe. People granted asylum in the UK will have to wait 20 years before they can apply to settle permanently.

 

 

Experts warn, this could be difficult and may not strongly influence asylum-seeking decisions, as many arrive due to family or language ties rather than policy. The proposals are likely to face opposition within Labour from those concerned about turning away people fleeing persecution. Refugee groups stress the importance of allowing people to rebuild their lives in the UK.