The UK government plans to require some successful asylum seekers to repay the cost of their state-funded support before they can receive settled status. Members of Parliament are expected to consider the proposal on Tuesday as part of the Immigration and Asylum Bill.
Under the proposed law, eligible refugees could repay around £10,000 to cover accommodation and living expenses funded by the state. However, the charge would apply only to those with sufficient financial means. The Home Office said the Home Secretary would have the authority to adjust the repayment amount.
Government Defends New Proposal
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said asylum support remains a right, but recipients should contribute once they become financially stable. Moreover, the government stated that migrants must repay the required amount before qualifying for permanent settlement.
A Home Office spokesperson added that detailed income thresholds and eligibility rules would be introduced through secondary legislation. The proposal comes as the government faces growing pressure to reduce annual spending on asylum accommodation and support.
Charities Raise Concerns Over Financial Burden
Meanwhile, refugee charities strongly criticized the proposal. Imran Hussain described the measure as an unfair financial burden on people fleeing war, persecution, and torture. He argued that asylum seekers often depend on government support because they cannot work while officials process their applications.
Furthermore, Madeleine Sumption said relatively few refugees would likely meet the income threshold. According to available estimates, fewer than 15 percent of refugees earn more than £20,000 five years after receiving asylum, limiting the scheme’s expected financial returns.
