The UK Government is introducing new rules under which people granted refugee status will be required to partially repay the state for the cost of their accommodation and support while their asylum claims are being processed.
This was announced in an official Home Office release and the Immigration and Asylum Bill, which has been introduced to Parliament.
Under the new measures, adult refugees with sufficient income will have to pay a fixed amount — approximately £10,000 (around $13,200 or €11,600). Payments will begin after they start working and their income exceeds a set threshold. The money will be collected monthly, similar to a student loan. Full repayment will be required before they can obtain the right to permanent residence in the UK (settled status).
The measure applies only to those who can afford it. The aim of the initiative is to reduce the financial burden on British taxpayers. Last year, spending on accommodation and support for asylum seekers exceeded £4 billion.
“Those on the pathway to settlement should repay some of our generosity, while those without the right to remain should take responsibility for the financial impact on the UK,” the Home Office stated.
For individuals whose asylum claims are rejected, full repayment of costs is envisaged. Failure to pay may result in a ban on re-entry to the country.
The new rules have provoked mixed reactions. Human rights organisations and parts of migrant communities have already expressed concern, describing the amount as significant for people just starting a new life in the country. At the same time, supporters of stricter migration policy welcome the initiative as a fair measure towards British taxpayers.
The bill still needs to be debated and passed in Parliament. Details of the payment mechanism (the specific income threshold and the size of monthly payments) will be clarified by the Home Office later.