The United Kingdom is tightening its immigration policy with new visa restrictions closely resembling Donald Trump’s measures. Facing political pressure and anti-immigration movements, London aims to make the country less attractive to migrants by overhauling asylum rules and refugee protections.
UK Government Announces Sweeping Reform to Deter Migrants
The UK government is preparing an unprecedented reform designed to discourage migrants from settling in the country. According to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, “This country has a long tradition of welcoming people fleeing danger, but our generosity is attracting migrants making illegal crossings of the Channel.” Her statement reflects London’s determination to better control migration flows, likely in response to political pressure from anti-immigration parties.
Two key measures were announced ahead of the detailed plan being presented to Parliament on Monday. The first involves reducing protections for refugees. Currently, those granted refugee status automatically receive permanent residency after five years. Under the new proposals, refugees will only receive temporary residency, subject to regular review, and may be returned to their home countries once deemed safe by UK authorities. “Asylum applications in the UK soared after a ‘golden ticket’ was effectively offered to thousands, forcing them to cross Europe via safe countries to reach our territory in makeshift boats,” Mahmood said. The government intends to end this “golden ticket” and reduce the UK’s appeal to irregular migrants.
The second measure aims to limit social benefits for certain asylum seekers to reduce incentives for illegal immigration. The government claims these reforms represent the “most significant changes to our asylum policy since World War II.” According to the Home Office, the measures are intended to better regulate migration flows while ensuring protections remain for those genuinely at risk. By combining restrictions on refugee rights with reduced social benefits, the UK is drawing a parallel with the visa restrictions implemented under Trump’s presidency in the United States. This reform marks a major shift in UK migration policy and will be closely monitored in the coming weeks for its effects on migrant flows, asylum seekers, and international relations.
UK to Significantly Toughen Asylum Policy
The UK is embarking on an unprecedented tightening of its asylum policy, restricting refugees’ right to stay and increasing deportations. The aim is to make the country less attractive to migrants, representing a turning point not only in visa regulation but also in broader immigration management, with potential long-term impacts on the UK’s asylum system