An undercover investigation has uncovered an alleged network in the United Kingdom that is helping migrants from Pakistan and Bangladesh falsely claim they are gay in order to secure asylum, raising serious concerns about misuse of the country’s immigration system.
The probe, conducted by the media, found that a group of immigration advisers and intermediaries are offering paid “packages” to migrants whose visas are nearing expiry. These packages reportedly include fabricated personal narratives, staged photographs, fake relationship evidence and even medical or supporting documents designed to strengthen asylum claims based on sexual orientation.
According to the findings, many of those seeking such assistance are individuals on work, study or tourist visas who do not wish to return to their home countries. They are allegedly advised to claim they would face persecution due to their sexuality if deported—an argument that can qualify applicants for asylum under UK law, particularly as same-sex relations remain illegal in countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Investigators found that advisers charged substantial sums for these services, in some cases up to £7,000 (around ₹7 lakh). In return, clients were provided with step-by-step guidance on how to present their case convincingly during Home Office interviews. This included coaching on what to say, arranging attendance at LGBTQ+ events, and producing letters from supposed partners attesting to same-sex relationships.
One adviser reportedly told an undercover journalist that there was “no check-up” to verify sexual orientation, suggesting that a well-prepared narrative and supporting documents could significantly improve the chances of approval. The adviser also claimed that a successful application would allow migrants to stay, work and access benefits in the UK.
The investigation also pointed to the alleged involvement of individuals linked to community organisations, including a group associated with LGBTQ+ asylum seekers. However, the organisation named in the report has denied any wrongdoing and said it is examining the allegations internally.
During covert visits to meetings, several attendees reportedly admitted that many participants were not genuinely part of the LGBTQ+ community, indicating the scale of potential misuse. The revelations have sparked debate over the integrity of the UK’s asylum system and the challenges authorities face in verifying claims based on personal identity.
The UK Home Office has responded by warning that individuals found to be making fraudulent claims could face strict action, including deportation and possible legal consequences. The government has also indicated that those facilitating such scams, including unregulated advisers or legal professionals, may face investigation and penalties.
The issue has triggered wider political and public discourse, with some calling for stricter scrutiny of asylum applications, while others caution against undermining protections for genuine applicants fleeing persecution.
