(MENAFN) The UK government is set to introduce major changes to its asylum system, requiring refugees to wait 20 years before they can apply for permanent residency, as announced by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood. The reforms aim to curb small boat crossings and reduce asylum claims.

Under the new rules, people granted asylum will initially stay in the UK on a temporary basis, with their refugee status regularly reviewed. Those from countries later deemed safe may be required to return home. Currently, refugee status lasts five years, after which applicants can seek indefinite leave to remain. Mahmood plans to shorten this initial period to two-and-a-half years, but extend the path to permanent settlement from five years to 20.

Mahmood described the policy as “designed to essentially say to people: do not come to this country as an illegal migrant, do not get on a boat.” She added, “Illegal migration is tearing our country apart” and stressed that it is the government’s duty “to unite our country.” She warned, “If we don't sort this out, I think our country becomes much more divided.”

The approach mirrors Denmark’s system, where temporary residence permits for refugees typically last two years, requiring them to re-apply when permits expire.

The plans are expected to face opposition from some Labour MPs. A Liberal Democrat home affairs spokesperson said it was “right the government looks at new ways to fix the disorderly asylum system created by the Conservatives” but emphasized that these measures are not a substitute for processing claims quickly to remove those without a right to stay.

Refugee advocates have criticized the reforms. Enver Solomon, chief executive of the Refugee Council, called the proposals “harsh and unnecessary” and argued they “won't deter people who have been persecuted, tortured or seen family members killed in brutal wars.”

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