Shabana Mahmood, the U.K. home secretary, announced plans to overhaul the asylum system, describing it as out of control and placing huge pressure on communities.
Refugees, including those from Ukraine who have built lives in Britain, may face return to their home countries if deemed safe.
The proposals, set for unveiling on Monday, include ending permanent refugee status and requiring reapplications every two and a half years.
Current refugee status lasts five years, followed by applications for indefinite leave to remain.
Under the new measures, asylum grants will be reviewed periodically, and individuals must return home when conditions allow.
Those arriving illegally will wait 20 years before applying for permanent settlement, applying only to new arrivals.
Mahmood stated that contributing through work could allow earlier settlement.
The policy draws from Denmark's system of temporary permits, typically two years, with reapplications required.
Mahmood plans to make housing and financial support discretionary, denying it to those able to work or with assets.
Asylum seekers must comply with laws or risk losing accommodation, addressing perceived advantages over British citizens in social housing.
About 10 percent of asylum seekers have work rights but no obligation; this will change to require self-support where possible.
Visa grants to nationals from Angola, Namibia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo may halt unless cooperation on removals improves.
Mahmood rejected far-right language accusations, calling it a moral mission as a child of lawful migrants.
She emphasized illegal migration divides communities and abuses a broken system.
Opposition includes shadow home secretary Chris Philp calling plans small steps with gimmicks, while Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey advocates work rights for asylum seekers.