The United Kingdom government has announced a new plan to offer illegal migrant families up to £40,000 if they agree to leave the country voluntarily within a week. The proposal was unveiled by UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood as part of a broader set of migration reforms aimed at reducing the number of failed asylum seekers staying in the country.
According to the government, the pilot scheme will initially target about 150 people. Under the plan, individuals could receive £10,000 each to voluntarily return to their home countries, including payments for children, with a maximum cap of £40,000 per family.
Speaking about the initiative, Mahmood explained that the incentive program could reduce the financial burden on taxpayers. She noted that the government currently spends large sums to support asylum seekers, especially those staying in hotels and temporary accommodation. In some cases, a family of three in asylum accommodation can cost the government up to £158,000 each year.
Officials say the voluntary return payments are designed to encourage people whose asylum claims have failed to leave the country without the need for forced deportations. Authorities warned that those who refuse the offer may face detention and enforced removal if they can be safely returned to their home countries.
The announcement came as Mahmood presented a broader immigration reform agenda in Westminster. She argued that the UK must regain control of its borders while still maintaining compassion within its migration system.
The Home Secretary also addressed political divisions within the ruling Labour Party over the new policies. More than 100 Labour lawmakers reportedly signed a letter criticizing proposals aimed at tightening migration rules. Mahmood responded by insisting the reforms reflect the party’s core values and aim to balance fairness with stronger border management.
The new proposals include additional changes to immigration and settlement rules. Starting next year, migrants seeking permanent settlement in the UK will be required to demonstrate English language ability at A-level standard. Refugees granted protection will also receive temporary protection visas lasting 30 months instead of automatic long-term status.
Authorities say the reforms are part of efforts to reduce the UK’s growing asylum support costs, which have reached around £4 billion annually. The government believes encouraging voluntary returns could significantly lower expenses while also speeding up the removal process for those who are not eligible to remain in the country.
The policy is expected to face further debate in parliament, with some lawmakers arguing that the approach could be too strict, while others believe tougher measures are needed to control irregular migration. Legislation connected to the wider migration reforms is expected to appear in the upcoming King’s Speech, outlining the government’s longer-term plan for an “earned settlement” immigration system.