Britain imposes first visa sanctions for migrant returns
Britain has enacted its first visa sanctions on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) due to the country’s refusal to accept the return of its illegal migrants, reports BritPanorama.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood implemented these measures after the DRC failed to cooperate with the UK’s border enforcement efforts. As a consequence, DRC’s VIP politicians will now have to navigate the visa application process like any other nationals, and fast-track visa processing has been revoked for all citizens from the DRC.
Mahmood has warned that if the DRC does not begin cooperating, the country could face a complete ban on visas. In contrast, neighbouring Angola and Namibia have responded positively by agreeing to accept their illegal migrants after similar threats were issued.
Ms. Mahmood stated: “We expect countries to play by the rules. If one of their citizens has no right to be here, they must take them back. I thank Angola and Namibia and welcome their cooperation.” She further emphasized, “Now’s the time for the Democratic Republic of Congo to do the right thing. Take your citizens back or lose the privilege of entering our country.”
According to government sources, the UK government is increasing the efforts to remove and deport illegal migrants, indicating that further actions could be taken against other nations that fail to accept their citizens back.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper added, “People who come to the UK illegally, overstay their visas or commit crimes in our country should expect to be returned.”
This development marks a significant step in the UK’s approach to immigration enforcement, reflecting a broader commitment to managing illegal immigration through accountability and cooperation with originating countries.
As the UK grapples with ongoing migration challenges, these visa sanctions could set a precedent for stricter immigration policies and international cooperation on migrant returns.
