UK Threatens Visa Restrictions for Countries Refusing to Take Back Illegal Migrants

The UK has warned it could suspend or restrict visas for countries unwilling to repatriate their citizens living illegally in Britain.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood issued the warning during a recent meeting of the “Five Eyes” intelligence-sharing alliance in London, which includes the UK, US, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. She said the move is aimed at curbing irregular migration and strengthening border security.

The announcement comes amid growing concern over a sharp rise in migrants crossing the English Channel in small boats from the French coast. More than 30,000 people have made the dangerous journey so far this year, according to the Home Office.

“Countries must cooperate when their citizens have no legal right to stay in the UK,” Mahmood said. “If a country refuses to take back its nationals, we are prepared to limit or suspend visa access.”

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has previously said that Britain’s visa policy would be linked to cooperation on migration, and that the Five Eyes alliance would play a stronger role in tackling irregular crossings.

Migration experts say the warning is likely to resonate with countries such as India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal, where visas to the UK are in high demand. Dr Madeleine Sumption, director of Oxford University’s Migration Observatory, noted that many governments resist taking back failed asylum seekers.

The opposition Conservative Party has criticised the Labour government for not going far enough. Tory leader Chris Philp said: “The government is talking tough but failing to act. What we need are real, immediate measures.”