UK changes its asylum rules: How it affects Indians?
What's the story
The United Kingdom has announced major changes to its asylum system, with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood calling it the "biggest changes to tackle illegal migration in modern times." The reforms are based on Denmark's model and aim to limit long-term settlement, speed up deportations, and curb irregular migration. Mahmood said the current asylum system is "not working," adding that undocumented migration is "tearing the country apart." So, how will it affect Indians? Let's find out.
Reform
Key changes revealed
The UK government has announced several key changes to its asylum system. These include stricter proof of persecution, fast-track deportations, and limited appeals. The threshold for granting asylum has been raised, with applicants now needing to provide stronger evidence of past or imminent harm. Fast-track deportations will see rejected applicants removed within days or weeks, and those arriving via irregular routes may be denied the right to claim asylum altogether.
Refugee changes
New rules for refugees
The legal duty to provide accommodation and weekly financial support will be removed under the new rules. Support will be discretionary and only available to those who are genuinely destitute. Refugee protection will also shift from a five-year system to 30-month renewable permits with frequent safety reviews. Those whose home countries are deemed safe could be returned under these changes.
Indian impact
Impact on Indian applicants
India is among the top five nationalities applying for asylum in the UK. However, under the new rules, only applicants with clear evidence of persecution are likely to succeed. Claims based on general insecurity or social discrimination will face higher rejection rates. Rejected Indian applicants could be quickly removed with limited time to challenge decisions under a single-appeal system.
Settlement
Stricter rules for settlement
Even the successful asylum seekers will now have temporary permits under the new rules. They will be subject to reviews every 30 months and will have to wait 20 years before seeking permanent residence. India was earlier added to a list of nations whose nationals cannot delay deportation after a criminal conviction under the "deport now, appeal later" system.