Britain has announced what it describes as its "most significant modern reforms" to illegal immigration and asylum systems, raising the threshold for permanent residency from five to 20 years while pledging its commitment to Hongkongers remains unchanged.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood outlined the new policy which aligns with approaches taken by Denmark's center-left government, focusing on tightening asylum eligibility and improving removal efficiency.

Under the changes, refugees will be granted temporary status subject to review every 30 months, and could be removed if their home country is deemed safe. This mirrors the Danish model of granting two-year residence permits requiring renewal.

The government will introduce a work and study route allowing refugees to faster settlement if they secure employment or educational opportunities. Only those using this pathway can sponsor family reunification.

Britain also plans to scrap legal obligations providing accommodation and living allowances to asylum seekers. Support will be limited to extremely vulnerable individuals, while those with work permits who refuse employment will lose benefits.

The government denied it would confiscate sentimental items like wedding rings as Denmark does, but officials said vehicles including cars and e-bikes could be seized to cover costs.

Currently, housing asylum seekers in hotels costs British taxpayers £5.77 million daily. The government aims to end hotel use entirely by 2029.

Mahmood said Britain would establish new legal pathways with annual quotas, including community sponsorship similar to the Homes for Ukraine scheme and an expanded Displaced Talent Mobility program for skilled refugees.

The home secretary also announced visa sanctions against countries refusing to accept returned citizens, naming Angola, Namibia and Democratic Republic of Congo as facing potential restrictions within one month.

While emphasizing Britain would continue accepting genuine refugees, Mahmood noted the country had provided sanctuary to Syrians, Afghans, Ukrainers and "honored our commitments to Hongkongers."