The United Kingdom has reacted to reports that the country
could restrict visa applications from nationalities whose citizens are most
likely to overstay their approved stays.
According to the report, the UK Home Office listed the
affected countries as Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka.
The report noted that nationals from the aforementioned
countries overstay their visas and later seek asylum.
The Home Office said citizens from these countries may face
tougher restrictions when applying to work or study in the UK.
In a statement to respond to speculation on visa rules,
spokesperson of the British high commission in Nigeria said the UK will keep
reviewing its migration policy to prevent abuse.
The spokesperson said the links between Nigeria and the UK
are “strong and enduring”.
“We keep our immigration system under constant review to
allow legal migration and legitimate travel, while deterring those who may seek
to abuse it,” the statement reads.
“Our UK and Nigeria people to people links are strong and
enduring, and we continue to work closely with the Government of Nigeria to
tackle irregular migration.”
Over the past two years, Nigerians have been significantly
affected by the UK’s immigration reform plans, especially in the areas of
student visas and work permits.
Many Nigerians have now turned to the United States as a
choice destination — but even that option has now proven unsustainable.
US President Donald Trump has also introduced tighter
restrictions, warning that even students with valid visas could be deported if
the US believes they do not serve her best interest.
