Britain toughens asylum policy inspired by Denmark’s strict approach to immigration

Drastic changes are coming to Britain’s asylum policy, including longer waiting times for permanent residency and a forced return to a person’s country of origin once it is deemed safe.

The change represents the biggest overhaul of asylum seeker policy in modern times, inspired by Denmark, which has one of the toughest policies in Europe and has been widely scrutinized by rights groups.

Britain’s Labor government has toughened its stance on immigration, aiming to respond to the growing popularity of the populist Reform UK party, which has taken a tough approach to immigration and forced Labor to take a tougher stance.

The new changes include removing the legal obligation to provide accommodation and financial assistance to some asylum seekers, the Interior Ministry said in a statement.

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Migrants walk along the beach before attempting to board an inflatable dinghy leaving the coast of northern France to attempt to cross the English Channel to Britain, from Petit-Fort-Philippe beach in Gravelines, near Calais, France, September 27, 2025. (Reuters)

He also said that refugees would have to wait 20 years to apply for permanent residency instead of the current five years, that the initial period of refugee status would be reduced from five years to two and a half years, that rules regarding family reunifications would be stricter, and that refugees would be encouraged or forced to return to their country of origin once it is considered safe.

The ministry said the measures would apply to asylum seekers who can work but choose not to, as well as those who break the law. Taxpayer-funded support would be prioritized for people contributing to the local economy and communities.

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Migrants walk along the beach before attempting to board a rubber dinghy leaving the coast of northern France to attempt to cross the English Channel to Britain, from Petit-Fort-Philippe beach in Gravelines, near Calais, France, August 25, 2025. (Reuters)

The Home Office said the changes were aimed at making the UK less attractive to illegal migrants and making it easier to deport people whose applications have been rejected.

“This country has a proud tradition of welcoming those fleeing danger, but our generosity attracts illegal migrants across the Channel,” said Interior Minister Shabana Mahmood. “The pace and scale of migration is putting immense pressure on communities.”

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the changes were aimed at making the UK less attractive to illegal migrants and making it easier to deport people whose applications have been rejected. (Getty Images)

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More than 100 UK charities have called on Mahmood to “end the scapegoating of migrants and performative policies that only cause harm”, arguing that these measures fuel racism and violence.

The British Refugee Council said on X that refugees do not compare asylum systems when trying to flee danger. He said they were targeting the UK because of family ties, some knowledge of English or connections who can help them start again safely.

Reuters contributed to this report.