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Three African countries—Angola, Namibia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)—have agreed to accept the return of foreign offenders and undocumented migrants following warnings from the UK government over possible visa restrictions.
The agreement comes a month after the UK Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, threatened visa penalties against countries that failed to cooperate with Britain’s migrant returns policy. Namibia and Angola were the first to respond, with the DRC now also confirming its cooperation.
Speaking after the breakthrough, Mahmood said the UK would not hesitate to act against governments that refuse to take back their citizens.
“My message is clear: if foreign governments refuse to accept the return of their citizens, then they will face consequences,” she said.
Visa Sanctions Warning
The Home Office had earlier warned that it could suspend or restrict visa access for citizens of Angola, Namibia and the DRC if their governments continued to obstruct deportations. Officials said return efforts had been delayed by excessive bureaucracy, including unprocessed paperwork and requirements for migrants to sign their own travel documents—effectively blocking removals.
The department described the situation as an “unacceptably poor and obstructive returns process” and made clear that penalties were imminent unless cooperation improved.
Asylum System Reforms
While outlining reforms to the UK asylum system in November, Mahmood confirmed that visa sanctions would be imposed on countries that failed to support deportation agreements. These measures include an “emergency brake” on visas for nations with high asylum claim rates until they agree to accept their citizens living illegally in the UK.
Following the new agreements, the Home Secretary said:
“Illegal migrants and dangerous criminals will now be removed and deported back to Angola, Namibia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. I will do what it takes to secure order and control at our borders.”
Thousands Eligible for Removal
According to government estimates, more than 3,000 people from the three countries could now be eligible for removal or deportation as a result of the cooperation deal.
Mahmood also warned that countries unwilling to work with the UK on returns should not expect normal visa relations. Further sanctions remain a possibility.
It is understood that India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Somalia and Gabon are among countries currently resistant to similar agreements, raising the prospect of future diplomatic and visa-related penalties.
