Over one million foreign nationals claim UK benefits

Over one million foreign nationals are claiming benefits in the UK, according to recent government data. Households with foreign claimants received over £7.5 billion in universal credit in 2023. This marks a significant increase from previous years. The analysis shows that certain nationalities, including Congolese, Iraqis, and Afghans, claim benefits at rates much higher than British citizens. The report highlights a growing trend, with an expected 800,000 foreign nationals likely to receive indefinite leave to remain in the UK over the next decade. The government is facing pressure to reform the benefits system, with proposals to restrict indefinite leave for jobless migrants and increase the time required to qualify. Critics argue that the current system is unsustainable and burdens taxpayers.