What's happened
UK government figures show a 4% decline in asylum claims in 2025, despite a 13% rise in small boat crossings. Hotel housing for asylum seekers decreased by 19%, with the backlog falling 48%. Visa issuance also declined, amid ongoing border control efforts.
What's behind the headline?
The latest data underscores a significant shift in UK migration management. Despite a 13% increase in small boat crossings, asylum claims fell by 4%, indicating a possible deterrent effect of stricter border controls. The reduction in hotel housing—down 19%—reflects government efforts to phase out hotel accommodation, which has been controversial and costly. The 48% drop in the asylum backlog suggests improved processing efficiency, yet enforced returns rose by 20%, highlighting increased deportation efforts. Visa issuance declines, especially in health and care sectors, reveal tighter immigration policies and a slowdown in legal migration. These trends point to a deliberate strategy to curb both legal and illegal migration, with political pressure mounting as Labour promises to end hotel use earlier than planned. The rise in enforced removals and the fall in asylum claims suggest the government is making tangible progress, but the continued rise in small boat crossings signals ongoing challenges at the border. Overall, these developments will likely influence future policy debates and public opinion on immigration in the UK, with a focus on balancing border security and economic needs.
What the papers say
Sky News reports a 4% decrease in asylum claims in 2025, despite increased small boat crossings, and highlights the reduction in hotel housing and asylum backlog. Reuters emphasizes the decline in legal visas and the rise in illegal arrivals, framing the story within broader immigration control efforts. The Independent provides detailed figures on asylum applications, small boat crossings, and visa trends, illustrating the complex migration landscape. While Sky News focuses on government achievements, Reuters and The Independent highlight ongoing challenges, such as increased illegal crossings and visa restrictions, reflecting differing perspectives on the effectiveness of current policies.
How we got here
The UK has faced ongoing challenges managing migration, with policies aimed at reducing illegal crossings and controlling legal immigration. The government has prioritized border enforcement, visa restrictions, and reducing reliance on hotel accommodation for asylum seekers. These measures follow years of political debate over immigration's economic and social impacts.
Go deeper
Common question
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UK Immigration Controls 2025: What’s Changed and Why?
In 2025, the UK has introduced significant changes to its immigration policies, including fewer work visas, stricter border enforcement, and adjustments to migrant accommodation. These shifts are raising questions about their impact on businesses, communities, and illegal crossings. Below, we explore the key changes and what they mean for the UK moving forward.
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Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.
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The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northwestern coast of the European mainland.