Reality of life in the UK
Hear the real stories of people who came to the UK illegally.
I was told by everyone that living in the UK would be a dream. Living and working in the UK has not matched up at all with my expectations.
Firsthand account – identity protected
Criminal gangs tell lies about how easy it is to get to the UK and how life will be better.
But if you come to the UK illegally, the reality is very different.
UK immigration rules mean you are unlikely to be allowed to work, rent property, or claim benefits.
If you owe money to people smugglers, they may force you to work illegally for them in unsafe and poor conditions, for little or no pay.
It’s become so difficult to be an illegal immigrant in the UK. The struggle to make ends meet and send money back home while being alone in a foreign country is very difficult.
Firsthand account – identity protected
Hear people share their experiences of life in the UK and why entering the UK illegally is never worth the risk.
B’s story
“Living and working in the UK hasn’t matched up to my expectations.” Explore B’s story.
G’s story
“I was lying to my family back home. I’m still in debt.” Explore G’s story.
K’s story
“Never again would I risk my life in a small boat.” Explore K’s story.
A’s story
“We still owe £5,500 for the journey.” Explore A’s story.
I think that if people were able to see twelve months into the future of what it would be once they made that journey across, I’m almost certain that people would choose not to.
Kendal, Immigration Enforcement Officer
Hear officials share their experience of how criminals exploit people who come to the UK illegally.
Safe and legal routes. The only way to the UK.
If you want to come to the UK for a better life, the only way to do so is to come here though safe and legal routes, or regular visa routes.
Find out more on safe and legal routes.