UK slaps Visa Restrictions On DR Congo Over Migrant Return Row

UK slaps Visa Restrictions On DR Congo Over Migrant Return Row

 

The UK government is imposing visa restrictions on people arriving from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) after declaring the country has failed to cooperate with new rules on returning illegal migrants and foreign national offenders.

 

Under reforms announced last month, the UK warned Angola, Namibia, and DR Congo that visas could be restricted — or even suspended — unless they improved cooperation with removals. While Angola and Namibia have now agreed to speed up paperwork and take back their citizens, ministers say DR Congo has not made the required changes.

 

As a result, fast-track visa processing will no longer apply to Congolese nationals. The Home Office also said VIPs and politicians from DR Congo will lose preferential treatment when travelling to the UK. Officials added that, unless cooperation “rapidly improves,” stronger measures — including a full visa ban — remain on the table.

 

A government source said Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood “will not hesitate” to extend penalties to other governments that refuse to take back their nationals. The Home Office claims the new agreements with Angola and Namibia could enable the deportation of thousands of people.

 

The broader asylum reforms will also make refugee status temporary, end guaranteed housing support for asylum seekers, and introduce capped “safe and legal routes.” Mahmood has warned countries that they must “play by the rules,” saying that if citizens have no right to remain in the UK, their governments must accept them back.

 

Ministers argue that deportations have been obstructed by delays, missing paperwork, or requirements for migrants to sign their own documents — effectively giving them veto power. Officials say DR Congo has engaged “to some extent,” but not enough to avoid sanctions.

 

Key Takeaways

• UK imposes visa restrictions on DR Congo over removals cooperation.

• Angola and Namibia avoided penalties by agreeing to improve processes.

• Full visa bans remain possible if DR Congo does not comply.

 

Source: BBC