UK Suspends Certain Visas for Afghan Citizens Amid Rising Asylum Claims
The UK Home Office has announced the suspension of issuing certain visas to citizens of Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar, and Sudan due to what it terms an “emergency situation.” Under this decision, student visas for citizens of these countries have been halted, and for Afghans, work visas are also included in the restrictions.
British media outlets have reported that this move follows an increase in asylum applications from individuals who entered the UK through legal channels, including student visas. The Home Office stated that in 2025, a number of these individuals applied for asylum after legally arriving in the country.
UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman said some individuals have used legal migration routes to submit asylum requests. She described the situation as “unprecedented” and emphasized that the country’s visa system must not be abused.
UK officials also confirmed that these restrictions will be implemented through formal amendments to immigration regulations. According to the new policies, the status of asylum seekers will be reviewed every 30 months, and those whose countries are deemed “safe” will be required to return home promptly.
In recent years, the UK has been a significant destination for educational and work migration for many Afghan citizens; however, the recent changes could notably affect the plans of new applicants.
