New DWP data shows more than 1.26 million foreign nationals are now receiving Universal Credit in the UK.
This is up from 883,000 in 2022.
EU nationals account for the majority, with over 770,000 claimants, followed by non-EU migrants with indefinite leave, refugees and others.
Most are reportedly unemployed.
The figures reveal that around one in five Universal Credit recipients are not British citizens.
Critics say the system is under pressure and needs urgent reform.
Government sources insist that eligibility checks have been tightened and that support is only going to those legally entitled.
