The United Kingdom government has proposed a new policy that would require some asylum seekers to repay the cost of accommodation and financial support received before becoming eligible for permanent residency.
The proposal, announced by the UK Home Office on Tuesday, forms part of wider immigration reforms aimed at reducing the cost of supporting asylum seekers and easing the financial burden on taxpayers.
Under the proposal, asylum seekers who become financially capable would be required to repay up to £10,000 spent on their accommodation and other government support before qualifying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
The Home Office said the repayment arrangement would be based on an individual’s financial circumstances and could be made through monthly instalments or deductions from welfare benefits.
It added that safeguards would be put in place to ensure beneficiaries retain sufficient income to meet their basic living needs.
According to the government, migrants who leave the United Kingdom without settling their outstanding balance would also be expected to repay the amount owed if they subsequently seek to return to the country.
The Home Office said the UK spends about £4 billion annually on accommodation and financial support for asylum seekers, noting that the proposed policy is intended to make the asylum system more sustainable.
Speaking on the proposal, the UK Justice Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, said beneficiaries of public support should contribute towards the cost once they are financially able to do so.
“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 government said the proposed reforms would be presented to Members of Parliament for consideration before they can become law.
If approved, the measures will form part of the UK’s broader immigration and asylum policy reforms.
