By Favour Ulebor
The United Kingdom government has announced plans to require some asylum seekers to repay up to £10,000 spent on their accommodation and financial support before they can qualify for permanent residency.
The proposed reform was announced on Tuesday by the UK Home Office through its official X handle and is aimed at reducing the cost of supporting asylum seekers while ensuring that those who are financially able contribute towards the assistance they received.
Under the proposal, asylum seekers who can afford it would be expected to repay approximately £10,000 before becoming eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK.
The Home Office said the repayment system would be based on an individual’s financial circumstances, with options for monthly instalments or deductions from benefits. It added that safeguards would be introduced to ensure that no one is left without the means to meet basic living needs.
According to the government, migrants who leave the UK without clearing their outstanding balance would also be required to repay what they owe if they later seek to return.
The Home Office noted that the annual cost of providing accommodation and financial support to asylum seekers is about £4 billion, arguing that the proposed policy would help reduce the burden on taxpayers.
Explaining the reform, UK Justice Secretary
Shabana Mahmood said recipients of state support should repay the cost once they become financially capable.
“Receiving asylum support is a right, but it is also a responsibility. Once people can contribute and repay the generosity of the British people, we expect them to do so,” she said.
The proposed reforms will be presented to Members of Parliament for consideration before they can become law. The measures have not yet taken effect.
