London, UK – The UK government has introduced new rules that will make it significantly harder for people who enter the country via irregular and dangerous routes, such as small boats or hiding in vehicles, to obtain British citizenship.
The new guidance, which takes effect from February 10, 2025, states that anyone who has previously entered the UK illegally will “normally be refused” citizenship, regardless of how much time has passed. This marks a major shift from previous rules, under which individuals who arrived by irregular routes had to wait 10 years before being considered.
While the change does not affect people applying for asylum or those granted refugee protection, it does mean that refugees who have lived legally in the UK for many years—sometimes decades—could still be denied citizenship because of how they originally entered the country.
What Has Changed?
The updated ‘good character’ guidance for caseworkers now explicitly states:
“Any person applying for citizenship from 10 February 2025, who previously entered the UK illegally will normally be refused, regardless of the time that has passed since the illegal entry took place.”
“A person who applies for citizenship from 10 February 2025 who has previously arrived without a required valid entry clearance or electronic travel authorization, having made a dangerous journey, will normally be refused citizenship.”
“A dangerous journey includes, but is not limited to, travelling by small boat or concealed in a vehicle or other conveyance.”
This change aligns with the UK government’s broader efforts to deter illegal migration, particularly crossings via small boats across the English Channel, which have become a key political issue. However, it has raised concerns among human rights groups, who argue that it undermines the UK’s commitments under international law, including the 1951 UN Refugee Convention, which states that asylum seekers should not be penalized for illegal entry.
Impact on Refugees and Migrants
For refugees who have obtained Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), the new rules could create significant barriers. While ILR grants many of the same rights as citizenship, it does not provide full political rights. Unlike British citizens, refugees without citizenship: Cannot vote in UK-wide general elections or referendums. Cannot stand as candidates in UK general elections. Are restricted on how long they can leave the UK, meaning extended absences could lead to loss of residency rights.
Refugees living in Scotland can still vote in Scottish elections, and those with ILR can stand as candidates in Scottish Parliament and local elections. Legal and Political Reactions Immigration lawyers and advocacy groups have urged individuals affected by the new policy to seek legal advice, as it could impact thousands of long-term UK residents. The government insists the change is a “clarification” rather than a policy overhaul, but critics argue it is another step in tightening immigration rules. The move comes amid broader efforts by the UK government to reduce irregular migration and demonstrate a tough stance on border control ahead of the next general election.
Source: LIIE IMMIGRATION
