UK Denies Citizenship to Undocumented Migrants Under New Rules

The British government has introduced new immigration guidance making it nearly impossible for undocumented migrants arriving by small boats to obtain citizenship. This policy, aimed at deterring illegal immigration, has faced criticism from within the Labour party, with some MPs arguing it creates a 'second class' status for refugees. The changes will apply to citizenship applications from February 10, 2025, and are expected to disproportionately affect asylum seekers and refugees who enter the UK irregularly. Critics, including the immigration law blog Free Movement, describe the updated rules as 'spiteful' and damaging to integration efforts. The announcement follows political pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government, particularly after the far-right Reform UK party gained significant support in the last election. Additionally, the Labour government is currently debating a Border Security Bill aimed at enhancing law enforcement powers against human smuggling operations.