Afghan migrants bring an average of 8 relatives to the UK, some 22

Afghan migrants have been allowed to bring up to 22 family members to the UK following a significant military data breach. This incident permitted relatives previously denied asylum to enter the country, causing national security concerns. Many Afghans who arrived have an average of eight family members, leading to accommodation challenges on military bases.

Initially, the government aimed to limit arrivals to married couples and children, but courts expanded eligibility, stating the definition of "family member" varies culturally. The data breach revealed that previously only 10% of applicants' extended family were eligible, but new estimates suggest over 12,500 could qualify. Critics allege that criminals may have exploited the situation to enter the UK, raising security fears.