Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is set to announce changes to the UK's immigration rules modelled on the Danish system, one of Europe's toughest. Last month, officials were sent to Denmark to study its border control and asylum policies, including tighter rules on family reunions and temporary stays for refugees.
The plans, reported by the BBC, have drawn scorn from some Labour MPs, particularly on the left. Clive Lewis criticised the approach, saying Denmark's Social Democrats adopted far-right talking points. Nadia Whittome called it a 'dangerous path' and described aspects of Danish policy as 'undeniably racist'.
Denmark's system grants longer-term protection mainly to those personally targeted by foreign regimes, while conflict refugees often receive only temporary permits. In 2022, Denmark declined to renew residency for around 1,200 Syrian refugees from Damascus, judging the region safe despite UN and EU objections.
Family reunion rules in Denmark are strict: both partners must be over 24, the resident partner must have no benefits for three years, provide a financial guarantee, and both must pass a Danish language test. Additionally, residents from 'parallel societies'—areas where over 50% are 'non-western'—are barred from family reunions.
Denmark also passed a law in 2021 to process asylum seekers outside Europe, drawing criticism from human rights groups. Some Labour MPs, however, want the government to go further. Jo White, representing 'red wall' seats, warned of electoral annihilation if immigration is not tightened. Mahmood has already extended the qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain from five to ten years.
