The UK is punishing the DRC over migrant returns by slapping on visa restrictions. Ministers are imposing the sanctions because the Democratic Republic of Congo government failed to agree to take back its citizens living illegally in Britain. Fast-track visa processes for people from the DRC are now canceled. Even visiting politicians and VIPs will lose their preferential treatment.
This move comes after the UK's toughened asylum rules were announced last month. The Home Office warned several countries, including Angola and Namibia, to improve cooperation or face similar penalties. Officials stated that Angola and Namibia have now agreed to step up their efforts to accept returning nationals. A government source said Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood would not hesitate to ban visas for other countries.
The Home Office called the deals with Angola and Namibia a success from the recent reforms. The changes aim to remove thousands of people. The DRC had been criticized for obstructive return processes, like not processing paperwork or letting individuals veto their own removal. The UK government says there has been some engagement from the DRC, but cooperation must improve fast. Failure to do so could lead to a complete visa ban for all its citizens. Mahmood's message was clear: take your citizens back or lose access to the UK.
This move comes after the UK's toughened asylum rules were announced last month. The Home Office warned several countries, including Angola and Namibia, to improve cooperation or face similar penalties. Officials stated that Angola and Namibia have now agreed to step up their efforts to accept returning nationals. A government source said Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood would not hesitate to ban visas for other countries.
The Home Office called the deals with Angola and Namibia a success from the recent reforms. The changes aim to remove thousands of people. The DRC had been criticized for obstructive return processes, like not processing paperwork or letting individuals veto their own removal. The UK government says there has been some engagement from the DRC, but cooperation must improve fast. Failure to do so could lead to a complete visa ban for all its citizens. Mahmood's message was clear: take your citizens back or lose access to the UK.
