Universal Credit (British Citizens) Bill

A Bill to restrict eligibility to claim Universal Credit to British citizens; and for connected purposes.

Originating House

House of Commons

Sponsor

Richard TiceReform UK

Parliament last updated

6 May 2026

In Plain English

AI-generated

May contain errors — check source documents for definitive information.

This bill would change the rules for claiming Universal Credit so that only British citizens could be eligible. If enacted, non-British citizens living in the UK would no longer be able to claim Universal Credit. The measure sits within welfare and immigration policy changes proposed by the sponsor in the Commons.

Key Points

Eligibility to claim Universal Credit would be restricted to British citizens only.
Non-British citizens residing in the UK would lose eligibility under the bill.
The bill would require changes to the Universal Credit rules and the systems that administer it.
Sponsored by Richard Tice of Reform UK, the bill is currently at the 2nd reading in the House of Commons, with the expectation of committee and further readings if it progresses.

Progress

The bill has completed its first reading and is now at the second reading in the Commons. If it passes, it would move to committee stage for detailed examination, followed by further readings and potential consideration by the Lords.

Who is affected?

Universal Credit claimants in the UK (broadly all claimants).Non-British citizens living in the UK who may currently be eligible to claim UC.British citizens who wish to claim UC (as the eligible group under the bill).Public sector staff and agencies administering Universal Credit (e.g., Jobcentre Plus, local authorities).Welfare rights organisations and charities that assist claimants with benefits.

Generated 21 February 2026

Bill Stages

1st readingCommons

6 Jan 2026

2nd readingCommons

Committee stageCommons

Report stageCommons

3rd readingCommons

1st readingLords

2nd readingLords

Committee stageLords

Report stageLords

3rd readingLords

Royal Assent

Updates & Documents

News (1)

Universal Credit (British Citizens) Bill

7 Jan 2026

The 2024-2026 session of Parliament has come to an end so the House of Commons is now prorogued until the next session begins on 13 May 2026. Prorogation is the formal end to the parliamentary year.

This Bill will therefore make no further progress.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.