Refugees who came illegally into Britain is denied citizenship

Refugees who arrived in the UK illegally will be prevented from getting citizenship during changes introduced earlier this week.

The home office quietly changed guidance to caseworkers who processed British citizenship applications.

The guidance relates to how an applicant is considered to have a “good character”, which is part of the assessment to decide whether to give citizenship. It now advises caseworkers to reject an application if the person arrived illegally, such as crossing the canal in a small boat or on the back of a truck.

A total of 41,977 migrants who arrived with small boats since 2019 have been given refugee status

Chris J. Ratcliffe/Reuters

The updated guide states: “Anyone who applies for citizenship from February 10, 2025, which previously entered the UK will usually be denied illegally, regardless of the time that has passed since the illegal entry took place.”

A refugee can apply for