Number of asylum seekers living in hotels across UK halves within a year

The number of asylum seekers housed in UK hotels has halved in the past year, with 160 hotels now accommodating 16,021 individuals, a 50% decrease year-on-year. This reduction is attributed to sweeping changes in the asylum system, leading to faster asylum decisions and a shift towards private accommodation like houses in multiple occupation. Small boat crossings have also fallen by 23% year-on-year, with Home Office officials citing increased trafficking arrests and French interceptions. The government aims to end hotel use by the end of parliament, though tens of thousands remain in other temporary accommodation. The Home Secretary stated these figures demonstrate restored border control and fairness in the migration system.

The United Kingdom has experienced a significant increase in applications for citizenship and permanent settlement. This surge is attributed to upcoming government reforms announced by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, which will extend the waiting period for migrants to gain these rights. In the year leading up to June 2026, 199,628 individuals were granted settlement, a 24% rise from the previous year. Additionally, 245,520 people received British citizenship, with citizenship applications increasing by 17% to a record high. The proposed reforms would double the qualification period for indefinite leave to remain from five to ten years, a move currently under consultation and facing internal pressure for reconsideration.