UK to Tighten Visa Rules for Nigerians, Pakistanis

The United Kingdom is reportedly planning to introduce stricter visa regulations for citizens from Nigeria, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka as part of an ongoing crackdown to overhaul its immigration system and reduce visa misuse.

According to The Times, the UK Home Office has flagged nationals from these countries as the highest risk for overstaying their visas and subsequently applying for asylum, which could lead to them gaining permanent residency if approved.

As a result, officials have indicated that individuals from these countries may soon face more demanding criteria when applying for student or work visas.

A spokesperson from the Home Office explained, “Our forthcoming Immigration White Paper will outline a comprehensive plan to restore order to our immigration system.”

The government is also developing intelligence systems aimed at identifying applicants who may exploit the visa process early on. 

The Home Office reiterated its commitment to regularly reviewing the visa system and taking prompt action when trends that could undermine immigration rules are detected.

Full details of the new visa changes are expected to be unveiled later this month in the highly anticipated Immigration White Paper.