Two nations have agreed to enhance their efforts in repatriating their citizens who were deported from the UK following a threat of a visa ban by the Home Secretary. Last month, Shabana Mahmood warned that visas for foreign nationals from specific countries could be suspended if those governments did not cooperate on return agreements, citing Angola, Namibia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) initially.
The Home Office stated that the three countries were facing consequences for their inadequate and obstructive return procedures. Recently, Angola and Namibia agreed to receive repatriated migrants after being confronted with potential penalties. However, the UK has revoked expedited visa processing and discontinued preferential visa treatment for diplomats and VIPs from the DRC as a cautionary measure due to their lack of action.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasized the importance of adherence to regulations by countries, stating that those without the right to remain in the UK must be accepted back by their home nations. Mahmood expressed gratitude towards Angola and Namibia for their cooperation and urged the Democratic Republic of Congo to follow suit or risk losing entry privileges to the UK.
These actions are part of a broader strategy to fortify border security and increase the removal of individuals without legal residency. Despite the threatened countries accounting for a small fraction of the visas issued for various purposes, they represent only a minor portion of illegal migrants entering the UK through irregular means.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper highlighted the government’s dedication to deporting individuals without legal status, noting a substantial increase in removals compared to previous years. Cooper instructed diplomatic missions worldwide to prioritize repatriations, emphasizing the effectiveness of collaboration between nations in achieving swift outcomes.
Individuals who enter the UK unlawfully, overstay their visas, or engage in criminal activities should anticipate repatriation, with continued efforts to secure the cooperation of their respective governments in this process.