The UK government has announced strict new measures aimed at controlling rising asylum claims, introducing what officials describe as an emergency brake on certain visa categories. Under the new policy, Britain will block study visas for nationals from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar and Sudan, while also halting work visas for Afghans. The changes are set to take effect on March 26.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government says the move is necessary to prevent abuse of the visa system. According to the Home Office, asylum applications from students belonging to these four countries have increased more than five times between 2021 and 2025. Additionally, asylum claims from Afghans who entered on work visas are now exceeding the total number of visas granted.
Interior Minister Shabana Mahmood stated that while Britain remains committed to protecting those fleeing war and persecution, the system must not be exploited. Government data shows that asylum claims from individuals entering legally have more than tripled since 2021 and made up 39 percent of the 100,000 applications filed last year.
Currently, nearly 16,000 nationals from the listed countries are being supported at public expense, including over 6,000 housed in hotels. The annual cost of asylum accommodation is estimated at 4 billion pounds, adding financial and political pressure on the government.
Despite the restrictions, Britain has granted sanctuary to more than 37,000 Afghans since 2021 through resettlement schemes and issued around 190,000 humanitarian visas last year. Officials say that once the asylum system stabilises, they plan to introduce capped safe and legal routes for genuine refugees.
The move comes amid growing political debate over immigration policy, with the Reform UK party gaining traction in opinion polls. The government has also signaled plans to make refugee status temporary and accelerate removals of illegal arrivals.
