For the first time, the UK government has published data on the immigration status of benefit suppliant, sparking fierce debate. The figures reveal key insights into who receives Universal Credit (UC), a benefit brace both employed and unemployed individuals. Immigration status of benefit claimants has become a hot button issue, with critics calling for stricter controls.
In June, nearly eight million people claimed UC, with British and Irish nationals making up 83.6%. Over one million suppliant were born overseas, including 700,000 EU citizens who arrived before Brexit. Meanwhile, 1.5% were refugees, and 0.7% came through safe routes like those for Ukrainians.
Surprisingly, more than 75,000 temporary residents also claimed UC, despite typically being ineligible. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) clarified that most foreign nationals must wait five years before claiming. However, exceptions exist, such as victims of modern slavery.
The data release followed pressure from Conservative MPs and independent lawmaker Rupert Lowe. A Downing Street spokesperson stated the Prime Minister wants fewer unemployed migrants claiming benefits. The government has already tightened rules, doubling the residency requirement for settled status.
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp called the figures, accusing Labour of losing control of the welfare system. He focused on fairness, saying benefits should go to those who have contributed. Meanwhile, Lowe labeled the situation “absolute insanity,” declaring the country “broke” and unable to sustain the costs.
Since April 2022, overseas born claimants remained steady at 15-17%, but total UC recipients surged from 5.5 million to 7.9 million. Half of EU claimants worked, compared to just a fifth of refugees. The government initially sought to curb benefit spending but faced backlash from its own MPs.
From April 2026, new claimants will see reduced health related UC payments. Yet, critics argue more drastic measures are needed. The immigration status of benefit claimants will likely remain a contentious topic as policymakers grapple with balancing support and sustainability.
As debates rage, one thing is clear: this data has intensified scrutiny on the UK’s welfare system. With immigration and benefits deeply intertwined, future reforms could reshape who gets help—and who doesn’t.
For more political updates, visit London Pulse News.
