Nearly 1.5 Million Migrants Received Universal Credit

Let's Break it down

The DWP disclosed that over the year leading to December 2025, migrants received Universal Credit on nearly 1.5 million occasions. This represents approximately 15.6 percent of the 9.6 million total recipients during that period. The annual figure includes any individual who accessed Universal Credit at any point in the year, regardless of subsequent employment.

This release marks the first time such comprehensive data on migrants’ Universal Credit claims has been published, stemming from a freedom of information request. The figures reflect the broader debate over the cost and administration of the welfare system in the context of sustained migration levels.

Breakdown of Migrant Universal Credit Recipients

The newly published figures offer insights into the immigration status of claimants. According to the DWP, 899,000 claimants held EU Settlement Scheme residency, 332,652 had Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or limited ILR along with their dependants, while 145,230 were refugees.

An additional 66,497 individuals had humanitarian protection, 54,749 were categorised as “other”, and 31,195 had no immigration status recorded. These detailed breakdowns illustrate the diversity of backgrounds among migrants receiving Universal Credit, ranging from EU citizens to individuals granted protection or seeking permanent residency.

Political and Policy Reactions

The release of the figures has generated significant responses across the political spectrum. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp stated, “The Conservatives would ban all benefits claims by immigrants, except EU citizens with permanent settlement here.

This ban would apply to all immigrants who are not British citizens.” Philp further argued that “Foreigners who come here should make a contribution and not take benefits funded by hard-working taxpayers,” reiterating the opposition’s stance on tightening welfare eligibility for immigrants.

Proposed Changes to Benefit Eligibility

In light of the new data, proposals have emerged for stricter eligibility rules. Under current regulations, migrants can access public benefits upon receiving ILR, refugee status, or humanitarian protection. However, there are active discussions among major parties to delay benefit access until full citizenship is granted.

One notable proposal under consideration by Labour would extend the waiting period for ILR from five to ten years. The proposed reforms would also require applicants to demonstrate employment, a high level of English proficiency, and a broader positive contribution to society.

A separate consultation is examining whether benefit eligibility should be postponed until citizenship is acquired, which typically takes between one and three years beyond ILR.

Economic Implications and Welfare Spending

The growth in Universal Credit claims by migrants occurs against a backdrop of rising welfare expenditure. Official forecasts estimate that total welfare spending will increase from £313 billion in the current financial year to £373 billion before the end of the decade.

This escalation comes as the government seeks to address a widening fiscal deficit. Research groups and commentators have highlighted the fiscal pressures resulting from providing support to a growing population that includes both British citizens and migrants.

Concerns have been raised about the sustainability of such spending without additional reforms to eligibility and contribution requirements.

Future Outlook for Universal Credit and Migration Policy

As the debate intensifies, government officials maintain that reforms are necessary to ensure fairness and public confidence in the welfare system. A government spokesperson said, “The proportion of Universal Credit claimants who are foreign nationals has fallen in the past year, and we will double the time that migrants must live in the country before they qualify for any public funds.

” The spokesperson added, “These reforms will ensure those who seek to live here permanently contribute to our country first, paying in more than they take out.”