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

Fundamental changes are coming to Great Britain’s asylum policy, including longer waiting periods for permanent residence and forcible repatriation to one’s home country once deemed safe.

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

Britain’s Labor government is toughening its stance on immigration as it seeks to address the growing popularity of the populist UK Reform Party, which has taken a hard-line approach to immigration and is pushing Labor to take a tougher position.

In the statement made by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, it was stated that the new changes include the removal of the legal obligation to provide shelter and financial support to some asylum seekers.

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It was also stated that refugees will have to wait 20 years instead of the current five years to apply for a permanent residence permit, the initial refugee status period will be reduced from five to two and a half years, rules regarding family reunification will be stricter, and refugees will be encouraged or forced to return to their home countries after they are deemed safe.

The ministry said the measures would apply to asylum seekers who can work but choose not to work, as well as people who break the law. Priority will be given to taxpayer-funded support for people who contribute to the economy and local communities.

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Migrants walk along the beach before trying to board an inflatable boat off the coast of northern France to cross the English Channel from Petit-Fort-Philippe beach in Gravelines, near Calais, France, 25 August 2025. (Reuters)

The Home Office said the changes were aimed at making Britain less attractive to illegal immigrants and making it easier for people whose claims are rejected to be deported.

Home Affairs Minister Shabana Mahmood said: “This country has a proud tradition of welcoming those fleeing danger, but our generosity is drawing illegal immigrants across the Channel.” he said. “The speed and scale of migration is putting huge pressure on communities.”

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the changes were aimed at making Britain less attractive to illegal immigrants and making it easier to deport people whose claims are rejected. (Getty Images)

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More than 100 British charities called on Mahmood to “scapegoat immigrants and end performance policies that only cause harm”, arguing that the measures fuel racism and violence.

The British Refugee Council said in X that refugees did not compare asylum systems as they tried to escape danger. They reportedly targeted the UK because of family ties, some knowledge of English or connections that could help them restart safely.

Reuters contributed to this report.