UK Political Donation Limits Extended to Overseas Voters Returning Home
Overseas voters moving to UK could – New rules would limit political contributions from overseas voters relocating to the UK, imposing a £100,000 annual cap on donations for the first year of their residency. This measure, proposed by ministers, aims to prevent foreign influence on elections by restricting large sums from individuals who have recently moved back to the country. The policy builds on existing restrictions for British citizens living abroad, which were set back to 25 March and now apply to those returning to the UK.
Alongside this, the government plans to tighten oversight of company donations. Under the proposed amendments, corporate contributions will be evaluated based on post-tax profits over the past five years rather than total revenue. This shift is intended to ensure only businesses with a clear UK connection can fund political campaigns.
Two prominent Reform UK supporters could be affected by the new cap. British billionaire Christopher Harborne, based in Thailand, has donated £12m to the party in 2025, including a £9m single contribution last year. Harborne recently registered to vote in the UK and stated he would continue funding Reform despite the government’s financial regulations. Similarly, crypto entrepreneur Ben Delo, who donated £4m between January and March, plans to move from Hong Kong to Britain to boost his contributions.
Government’s Strategy to Combat Foreign Influence
Ministers argue these changes will curb improper funding sources. They will also require candidates to verify that pre-campaign donations exceed £2,230 and originate from valid channels. Communities Secretary Steve Reed emphasized the importance of the reforms, stating:
“British democracy is not for sale. These tough new rules will shut down dodgy funding, stop foreign money influencing our elections and keep our democracy strong.”
The proposals are part of a broader response to a political funding review led by former senior civil servant Philip Rycroft. The review was initiated last year to address concerns about foreign states interfering in UK politics. In March, the government also banned cryptocurrency donations to political parties, alongside the £100,000 cap for overseas voters.
Reform UK has criticized the measures, with the party’s home affairs spokesman Zia Yusuf accusing Labour of “choking off legal funding for its main rival.” The changes are set to be introduced as amendments to the Representation of the People Bill, which will return to the House of Commons for debate on 14 July.
