UK curbs DRC visas, announces migrant return deals with Angola, Namibia

Al JazeeraCenterEN 4 min read 100% complete by By News AgenciesDecember 28, 2025 at 05:40 AM

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The UK Home Office announced visa restrictions on the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) on December 28, 2025, due to the DRC's alleged lack of cooperation with the UK's new policy on returning undocumented migrants and those who commit crimes. Simultaneously, the UK announced agreements with Angola and Namibia to increase the return of their citizens. These actions follow Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood's unveiling of reforms to the UK asylum system last month, designed to expedite deportations and make refugee status temporary. The UK government expects the DRC to comply with the return policy or face further visa restrictions, while praising Angola and Namibia for their cooperation. The reforms aim to address rising anger over irregular migrant arrivals.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Keir Starmer 40% Shabana Mahmood ×260% Home Office ×370% Namibia ×370% Angola ×370% Democratic Republic of the Congo ×580% UK ×890%

Keywords

visa restrictions 90% democratic republic of the congo 80% migrant return 80% asylum seeker 70% angola 60% refugee protection 60% namibia 60% deportation 60% irregular migrants 50% international cooperation 50%