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.
