Refugees under new UK entry scheme to pay back for support granted, Minister says

African migrants on a boat after being rescued. Refugees accepted under the UK's new safe and legal entry programme will be required to repay over Sh1.7 million if they can afford it. (Photo: MINDS Global Spotlight/AP/Santi Palacios/picture alliance)

By Mary Wambui
Tuesday, June 30, 2026

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Under the new safe and legal entry programme, refugees who can afford it will be required to repay more than Sh1.7 million (£10,000) to help cover taxpayer-funded housing and support costs.

Refugees granted asylum in the United Kingdom under a new safe and legal entry programme announced last week will be required to pay just over Sh1.7 million (£10,000) to help recover part of the cost of taxpayer-funded housing and support, the Home Secretary announced on Tuesday.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the repayment amount could be adjusted in the future to ensure it remains fair to taxpayers while preventing refugees from falling into destitution.

“It is only fair that those who can afford it repay this country's generosity. My goal is simple: to ensure we have an asylum system not just today but for generations to come,” she added.

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The Home Office said all arrivals will be granted refugee status and will undergo strict biometric screening, criminal background checks and health assessments before entering the UK to ensure support is directed to those in genuine need.

The programme will begin with a limited number of arrivals before expanding gradually, with the government saying the phased rollout will keep the scheme controlled, sustainable and help restore public confidence in Britain's immigration system.

Approved community groups, including charities, faith organisations and local groups, will be able to sponsor refugees by securing housing, supporting their integration into local communities and helping them find employment.

Trusted universities will also be allowed to sponsor refugees through a new refugee study route.

“A new refugee work sponsorship route is expected to open next year,” the Home Office added.