UK Slaps Visa Sanctions on DR Congo Over Migrant Returns
The United Kingdom has imposed visa sanctions on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after accusing the Central African nation of failing to cooperate in the return of its citizens who are living illegally in the UK or have committed crimes
Under the new measures, the UK government has removed certain visa privileges previously enjoyed by Congolese nationals, including fast-track processing and preferential access for officials and diplomatic passport holders. British authorities warned that tougher restrictions, including a possible full visa ban, could follow if Kinshasa does not improve cooperation on migrant returns UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the decision reflects London’s determination to enforce its immigration laws and ensure that countries take responsibility for their nationals. According to the Home Office, the DRC has repeatedly failed to issue travel documents or accept deportees, frustrating efforts to remove individuals who have no legal right to remain in the UK The sanctions come as part of a broader UK strategy to tighten immigration controls and speed up deportations. In recent weeks, Britain has reached agreements with countries such as Angola and Namibia, which agreed to accept the return of their citizens following diplomatic pressure from London. UK officials cited these agreements as evidence that visa leverage can be effective when cooperation is forthcoming Analysts say the move could strain diplomatic relations between London and Kinshasa, especially at a time when the DRC is grappling with internal security challenges and regional instability. However, UK officials insist the policy is not punitive but aimed at encouraging compliance with international obligations on migration management As of the latest reports, the Congolese government has not issued an official public response to the UK’s decision. British authorities maintain that the sanctions will remain in place until meaningful progress is made on accepting returned migrants, signaling that immigration enforcement will remain a central pillar of the UK’s foreign and domestic policy agenda .
