Britain’s new Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, has signaled that the government may suspend or restrict visas for citizens of countries unwilling to take back migrants who have no legal right to remain in the UK.
Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Iran, Iraq, and the Gambia are among the countries previously described as uncooperative.
The remarks came during Mahmood’s first international engagement since her appointment last week. She stressed that securing the UK’s borders was her top priority, adding that nations must cooperate if their citizens are found to be in Britain illegally.
The warning reflects growing urgency within Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government to curb small-boat crossings, which have reached record levels this year. According to the Home Office, more than 30,000 people have arrived on small boats in 2025 so far.
Officials are considering new measures, including visa restrictions, to discourage abuse of the system. Reports earlier this year suggested that the Home Office was already reviewing applications from Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka more closely, citing concerns about overstaying and asylum claims.
Recent figures show a 37 percent decline in overall visa applications compared to the previous year, following tighter migration rules introduced in 2024. Mahmood said the current level of illegal migration remains “unacceptable” and vowed swift action.
Good move by British Government.