Britain recorded the largest increase in asylum claims in Europe last year, as the number of people seeking refuge in the UK soared to its highest level on record, according to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
Official figures show that 108,000 asylum claims were lodged in the UK in 2024 — a 28% rise compared with 2023, when around 84,000 applications were made. The total surpasses the previous record of 103,000 set in 2002 and places the UK at the top of Europe’s asylum growth chart, outpacing both France and Germany, where the number of claims actually declined.
Channel crossings surge despite government crackdown
The OECD data revealed that 44,000 people attempted to enter the UK illegally last year, mostly through small boat crossings in the English Channel — up from 37,000 in 2023. The continued rise comes despite government pledges to “stop the boats” and strengthen border enforcement.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged in September that previous governments, including Labour, had failed to address the growing immigration challenge, saying the country had “shied away from people’s concerns around illegal immigration” and allowed “too many people to enter and remain illegally”.
Main countries of origin and asylum routes
The report found that Pakistan accounted for more than 10,000 asylum applicants, followed by Afghanistan and Iran, each contributing over 8,000. Many arrivals continue to travel through irregular routes, particularly via the Channel, as conflict, economic instability, and global displacement drive migration pressures.
Global asylum wave and UK migration slowdown
Across the OECD’s 38 member nations, more than 3 million asylum claims were filed in 2024 — the highest figure ever recorded. The United States led with 1.7 million, followed by Germany with nearly 230,000 and Spain and Italy, which also saw strong inflows due to their proximity to Mediterranean migration routes.
In contrast, overall migration to the UK fell last year, with 436,000 people granted permanent residency, compared to 743,000 in 2023. Despite the decline, the figure remains above pre-pandemic levels, highlighting the UK’s ongoing appeal as a destination for workers and families.
Mounting pressure on UK asylum system
The record number of asylum claims adds strain to Britain’s already overloaded immigration system. According to Home Office data, more than 91,000 cases remain pending, leading to increased accommodation costs and political friction over the government’s handling of migration.
As the debate intensifies, the figures are likely to renew pressure on Downing Street to balance humanitarian responsibilities with its pledge to regain control of UK borders — a key political test for the Starmer government in the year ahead.
