UK Tightens Visa Rules for DRC Amidst Deportation Dispute
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The United Kingdom has significantly tightened its visa requirements for citizens of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) due to a lack of cooperation from Kinshasa in the return of illegal immigrants and convicted criminals. The move, reported by The Daily Telegraph and relayed by the TASS news agency on December 28, signals a hardening stance by London on border control and international obligations.
The escalating tensions stem from the DRC government’s perceived reluctance to facilitate the repatriation of its nationals who have no legal right to remain in the UK. According to reports, Congolese diplomats and politicians will no longer receive priority processing for visa applications, and ordinary citizens will face delays.
Escalating Threats of Complete Visa Ban
A senior official within the UK’s Ministry of Internal Affairs warned that a complete cessation of visa issuance to DRC citizens – including President Felix Tshisekedi – is on the table if the situation does not improve. “We hope that countries will play by the rules,” the official stated. “If one of their citizens does not have the right to be here, they have the responsibility to take him away. Now it is time for the DRC to do the right thing: take away your citizens or you will lose the privilege of entering our country.”
Recent Visa Statistics and Regional Pressure
Between June 2024 and June 2025, the UK approved 299 visas for DRC citizens for legitimate purposes such as work, study, family reunification, and humanitarian aid. However, the number of tourist visas issued during the same period was significantly higher, though the exact figure remains undisclosed.
The UK’s actions are part of a broader effort to compel countries to accept the return of their citizens who have been deemed ineligible to remain in the UK. Angola and Namibia recently received similar warnings, but both nations have since begun cooperating with British authorities. Collectively, the DRC, Angola, and Namibia account for approximately 4,000 illegal migrants and convicted criminals currently residing in the UK.
Potential Expansion of Visa Restrictions
The Daily Telegraph reports that other nations facing potential visa restrictions include India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Somalia, Egypt, and Gabon – all countries identified as being resistant to accepting their citizens’ repatriation.
Post-Brexit Surge in Illegal Immigration
The issue of illegal immigration has become increasingly prominent in the UK since its departure from the European Union in 2018. Over 185,000 people have crossed the English Channel in small boats attempting to enter the country. The current Labor Party government, which assumed power after parliamentary elections in July 2024, has pledged to enhance cooperation with EU states to curb this influx.
Record Asylum Claims
The UK is also grappling with a surge in asylum requests. From June 2024 to June 2025, a record 111,084 applications were submitted – a 14% increase compared to the previous year. This places the UK fifth in Europe for asylum applications, behind Germany, Spain, France, and Italy.
The UK’s increasingly firm approach to visa regulations and repatriation underscores a growing determination to control its borders and enforce international agreements regarding the return of individuals without legal residency.
