Azernews.Az

By Alimat Aliyeva

The United Kingdom may suspend the issuance of visas to citizens of three African countries if their authorities fail to cooperate in repatriating illegal migrants, The Times reported on Monday, citing sources within the British Home Office, Azernews reports.

The countries in question are Angola, Namibia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. According to the newspaper, these nations have refused to accept roughly 4,000 of their nationals who are residing illegally in the UK. While no official deadline has been confirmed, the Home Office reportedly warned the embassies of these countries in London on November 13 that visa restrictions could be imposed if cooperation does not improve within a month.

Initially, the UK plans to target diplomats and other privileged individuals by requiring them to apply for visas through the standard process, instead of enjoying expedited access. If the situation does not improve, the restrictions could extend to all citizens of the listed countries, potentially including a full ban on visa issuance—similar to measures previously taken by the administration of former US President Donald Trump.

The Times notes that other countries that resist accepting deported nationals may also face similar measures in the future. India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Somalia, and Gabon could be added to the UK’s “blacklist” if authorities continue to encounter difficulties in repatriation. Analysts say these potential restrictions could strain diplomatic relations, but they also reflect the UK government’s growing emphasis on immigration control and accountability in international migration agreements.

Experts suggest that if fully implemented, the visa restrictions could have broader economic and cultural impacts, affecting trade, tourism, and diaspora communities in the UK.