UK Boosts Immigration System - India to Join Safe States List

“In a strategic move, the United Kingdom plans to accelerate the repatriation process for Indians entering the country illegally by including India in its "safe states" list. This initiative aims to fortify the UK's immigration system and curb baseless asylum claims, ensuring a more secure and streamlined process.”

Navigating the UK's New Immigration Landscape: India Added to "Safe States" List

The United Kingdom's decision to add India to its list of "safe states" signifies a significant move to expedite the repatriation process for individuals entering the country illegally and prevent them from seeking asylum.

Purpose of the Move

The UK Home Office emphasizes that the inclusion of India in the "safe states" list is aimed at fortifying the country's immigration system and preventing abuse by individuals making unfounded protection claims.

Inclusion of India and Georgia

According to the UK Home Office statement, both India and Georgia will be added to the list of 'safe states' as part of the implementation of the "Illegal Migration Act 2023." This move aligns with the broader strategy to address challenges posed by illegal migration.

Impact on Asylum Claims

The decision renders all asylum claims from Indian nationals who arrive on small boats or illegally through other routes inadmissible. Notably, there will be no provision for appeals, marking a firm stance on such cases.

Rise in Small Boat Arrivals

The UK Home Office notes a rise in small boat arrivals from India and Georgia over the last year, even though individuals may not be at obvious risk of persecution. Deeming these countries safe means that such arrivals will not be admitted to the UK asylum system.

Criteria for Considering a Country-Safe

The UK considers India a safe country based on specific criteria. According to the Home Office, a country can be included in the list of safe states if the Home Secretary is satisfied that there is no serious risk of persecution of its nationals, aligning with the UK's obligations under the Human Rights Convention.

Parliamentary Scrutiny

The proposal to include India in the list of safe states will undergo parliamentary scrutiny through debates in both Houses of Parliament before it comes into force. This process ensures a comprehensive examination of the decision.

Legal Framework

The latest measures align with the Illegal Migration Act 2023, which aims to "stop the boats" by facilitating the detention and swift return of individuals who come to the UK illegally to a safe third country or their home country. Additional measures, including the legal duty to remove, will be implemented in the coming months.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How does the inclusion of India in the 'safe states' list impact asylum claims?

Inclusion in the list rules out the possibility of Indians seeking asylum in Britain, considering the UK government deems these countries as safe, stable, and free from widespread human rights abuses.

2. How does the UK plan to implement the measures outlined in the "Illegal Migration Act 2023"?

The act aims to "stop the boats" by facilitating the detention and swift return of individuals who come to the UK illegally to a safe third country or their country of origin. Further measures, including the legal duty to remove, will be rolled out.

3. What is the economic partnership between India and the UK?

The overall trade in goods and services (including both exports and imports) between India and the UK amounted to £38.3 billion in the four quarters ending Q2 2023, reflecting a growth of 24.1% or £7.4 billion in current prices compared to the corresponding period ending Q2 2022.

4. What is the Illegal Migration Act 2023?

The Illegal Migration Act 2023 is legislation focused on removing individuals who entered or arrived in the United Kingdom in violation of immigration control. It covers provisions for detention, unaccompanied children, victims of slavery or human trafficking, leave to enter or remain, citizenship, and inadmissibility of certain claims, and establishes a maximum annual limit for individuals entering the UK through safe and legal routes.

5. Is it possible for individuals in India to obtain permanent residency (PR) in the UK?

Attaining UK permanent residency through post-study options also provides opportunities for international students to pursue British citizenship. The conditions for Indian students or international individuals to apply for UK PR include being employed in the UK or having family ties in the country.