An undercover investigation by BBC News has exposed asylum fraud in the United Kingdom. The investigation uncovered a network of law firms and advisers charging thousands of pounds to help migrants submit fake asylum claims.
These migrants reportedly pretend to be gay and claim they face danger if returned to their home countries.
The UK asylum system is designed to protect individuals at risk. However, the investigation found it is being exploited. Undercover reporters posing as international students discovered that some firms charged up to £7,000 for fabricated claims. They also promised a low chance of rejection. The investigation revealed that some migrants visited doctors pretending to be depressed to obtain medical reports. In one case, an individual falsely claimed to be HIV positive.
An adviser claimed she had spent over 17 years helping clients file fake claims. Another offered to arrange fake relationships to support applications.
Data shows that migrants with expired visas now make up 35 percent of asylum claims, which exceeded 100,000 in 2025. The UK Home Office warned that anyone exploiting the system will face the full force of the law. Meanwhile, Jo White has called for a crackdown on those involved. She stressed that protection must only be granted to those who meet the required criteria.
In March, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced new immigration measures. Under the changes, asylum seekers will receive temporary protection, with cases reviewed every 30 months.
