Efforts are being heightened by two nations to repatriate their citizens who were deported from the UK following a warning from the Home Secretary regarding a potential visa ban.
In a recent statement, Shabana Mahmood indicated that visas for foreign nationals from specific countries could be withheld if those governments did not cooperate on repatriation agreements. Initially, Angola, Namibia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) were singled out.
The Home Office expressed dissatisfaction with the inefficient and obstructive return processes of the three countries. Consequently, Angola and Namibia have agreed to accept the return of migrants to avoid penalties.
Conversely, the UK has taken action against the DRC by revoking fast-track visa processing and suspending preferential treatment for diplomats and VIPs as a warning due to the lack of reforms.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasized the importance of countries abiding by regulations, stating that undeserving citizens should be repatriated promptly.
She praised Angola and Namibia for their cooperation and urged the Democratic Republic of Congo to follow suit. Failure to comply may result in restrictions on entry into the UK.
These actions mark the initial steps in enhancing border security and expediting the removal of individuals unlawfully present in the country.
Although the threatened countries accounted for a small percentage of visas granted in the past year, they contributed minimally to illegal immigration via irregular routes.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper highlighted the government’s commitment to deporting individuals without legal status in the UK. Cooperation from foreign governments is crucial in this process, and the diplomatic network has been instructed to prioritize repatriation efforts.
Individuals entering the UK unlawfully, overstaying visas, or engaging in criminal activities should anticipate deportation, with continued pressure on their respective governments for cooperation.