UK Considers Incentives and Potential Force to Deport Failed Asylum Seekers

The UK government is proposing a new scheme offering up to £40,000 to families of failed asylum seekers to encourage them to leave the country voluntarily. If families decline the offer within seven days, enforced removal proceedings, potentially including the use of force, could commence. The proposals, announced by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, aim to reduce costs associated with housing asylum seekers and address concerns about illegal immigration.

Pilot Scheme Details

The pilot scheme will target approximately 150 families currently living in taxpayer-funded accommodation. The financial incentive is capped at £10,000 per person, with a maximum of £40,000 available per family. The government estimates potential savings of £20 million if the scheme is successful. This builds upon an existing voluntary returns program, which offers up to £3,000 in financial support to those who choose to leave the UK.

Potential Use of Force, Including on Children

A consultation document released by the Home Office outlines that, unlike previous guidance, the use of force – including handcuffing children – could be considered to effect removal. The document states that physical handling of a child as a last resort to overcome noncompliance is considered “an unfortunate but necessary and justified intervention.” This represents a significant shift in policy and has drawn criticism from advocacy groups.

Criticism and Concerns

The proposals have faced strong opposition from refugee and migrant advocacy organizations. The Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants (JCWI) expressed alarm at the potential for violence and dehumanization, stating the government’s actions are “frightening.” Concerns have too been raised about the limited timeframe – just seven days – given to families to make a “potentially life-changing decision” without adequate access to legal advice. Some argue the scheme will incentivize illegal immigration, as suggested by the Conservative and Reform UK parties.

Changes to Refugee Status

In a separate but related development, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced that any asylum seeker granted refugee status in the UK will now only be offered temporary protection. Cases will be reviewed every 30 months, after which individuals could be sent back to their country of origin if deemed safe. This change, implemented without a parliamentary vote, marks one of the most significant alterations to the UK’s asylum system in a generation. Existing asylum claims and unaccompanied children will continue to be subject to the previous rules, offering five years of protection.

Cost Considerations

Mahmood has emphasized the financial burden of housing asylum seeker families, citing a cost of up to £158,000 per year for a family of three. The government aims to achieve “significant savings to the taxpayer” through the new scheme, mirroring reforms implemented in Denmark.

This article was amended on March 6, 2026.