The United Kingdom government is preparing to introduce sweeping reforms to its refugee policy, extending the waiting period for refugees to apply for permanent residency from five years to twenty. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is expected to formally announce the plan on Monday. Under the new system, refugees will initially receive temporary residence permits of two and a half years, down from the current five, with regular reviews of their home country’s safety conditions. If deemed safe, they may be required to return. The policy aims to deter illegal sea crossings and reduce asylum applications, which rose 17% in the past year to over 109,000. Inspired by Denmark’s strict immigration model, the UK’s approach has drawn criticism from refugee advocacy groups, who warn it will impose prolonged uncertainty and psychological strain on asylum seekers. Analysts believe the policy could significantly reshape Britain’s future immigration system.