Britain has unveiled a controversial new immigration proposal that would require many migrants to repay the cost of their asylum process before they can secure permanent residency.
Under the plan, announced Monday, asylum seekers who wish to stay in the United Kingdom long-term would need to cover expenses linked to their support, including housing and basic care. Government estimates suggest the total could reach around £10,000 (about €11,600) per person.
Officials say the policy is designed to reduce pressure on public finances and discourage irregular migration. The Home Office reported that the cost of supporting asylum seekers rose to roughly £4 billion (€4.64 billion) last year, highlighting the growing financial burden on taxpayers.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood presented the measure as a question of fairness. She argued that those who are able to work and rebuild their lives in Britain should eventually repay the support they received. The government stressed that the rule would only apply to adults who can reasonably afford it, while children would be exempt. It also confirmed that the policy would not affect people already in the asylum system.
Still, the proposal is likely to deepen political divisions. Immigration remains one of the most sensitive issues in British politics, and the ruling Labour Party is facing increasing pressure from Nigel Farage’s Reform UK. The party has taken a far tougher stance, pledging mass deportations of asylum seekers if it gains power.
The timing adds to the uncertainty. The announcement comes just as Prime Minister Keir Starmer has declared his resignation, leaving Labour to manage a highly charged debate during a period of political transition.
Supporters of the plan say it strikes a balance between compassion and responsibility, while critics warn it could place an unfair burden on vulnerable people trying to rebuild their lives. As the debate unfolds, the proposal is expected to become a central issue in Britain’s ongoing struggle to define its immigration policy.
