The United Kingdom has announced new visa restrictions on nationals from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after failing to reach an agreement with its government on the return of illegal migrants and foreign national offenders. UK ministers said the DRC has not implemented the changes required under the tougher asylum and immigration rules introduced in November. As a result, fast-track visa services for Congolese nationals will be suspended. The Home Office also confirmed that government officials, politicians, and other high-profile individuals from the DRC will no longer receive pre

The United Kingdom has announced new visa restrictions on nationals from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after failing to reach an agreement with its government on the return of illegal migrants and foreign national offenders. UK ministers said the DRC has not implemented the changes required under the tougher asylum and immigration rules introduced in November. As a result, fast-track visa services for Congolese nationals will be suspended. The Home Office also confirmed that government officials, politicians, and other high-profile individuals from the DRC will no longer receive preferential visa treatment. In contrast, Angola and Namibia have agreed to strengthen cooperation with the UK by improving procedures to accept the return of their citizens. Both countries had previously been warned they could face similar sanctions if they failed to comply. The Home Office described the agreements with Angola and Namibia as the first concrete outcome of last month’s asylum reforms. Officials said the improved cooperation could lead to the removal and deportation of thousands of people. Previously, the Home Office had accused the DRC, Angola, and Namibia of delaying returns through slow paperwork processing and requirements that migrants sign their own documents, effectively blocking removals. The UK government described these practices as unacceptable and obstructive. While officials acknowledged some engagement from the DRC, they warned that further action would follow if cooperation does not improve quickly. Possible measures include a complete suspension of visas for Congolese nationals. Speaking on the issue, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said countries must meet their international obligations. “If a person has no legal right to remain in the UK, their home country must accept their return,” she said. She welcomed the cooperation of Angola and Namibia and urged the DRC to follow their example.

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