Eritreans could face a ban from entering the UK unless their government agrees to accept more rejected asylum seekers and criminals, according to Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary. This warning follows Eritrea's abrupt withdrawal from returns cooperation earlier this year, as stated by the Home Office.

Context

Officials and VIPs from Eritrea have already lost their fast-track access to UK visas due to the government's refusal to cooperate with the return of its nationals. Refugee organizations have cautioned against rejecting asylum applicants from Eritrea, a country currently embroiled in conflict and famine. Historically, the UK has accepted a significant majority of Eritrean asylum seekers.

In the year ending June 2026, Eritreans were the most common nationality arriving in the UK by small boat. The Home Office emphasizes that returns arrangements are crucial for removing individuals who have been denied asylum and foreign criminals.

Developments

Mahmood stated, "Eritrea has had every chance to accept the return of criminals and those with no right to be in the UK. Unlike other countries, it has refused. My message to the Eritrean government is simple: take back your nationals or face a complete ban on your citizens entering the UK. I will not hesitate to impose further measures on other countries refusing to cooperate."