Africa: UK to Stop Issuing Study Visas for Cameroon and Sudan

AllAfrica

March 4, 2026

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The British government has announced plans to halt the issuance of education visas for nationals from Cameroon, Sudan, and two other countries, citing concerns over the abuse of the visa system by asylum seekers. This decision comes as part of a broader effort to curb an influx of individuals exploiting legal pathways to enter the UK. The move targets Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar, and Sudan, with the Home Office reporting a 470% surge in student asylum applications from these countries between 2021 and 2025. Additionally, work visas for Afghan nationals will also be suspended. The policy shift is driven by the UK's increasing focus on reducing irregular migration, a key issue in British politics. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated that the decision was necessary to prevent individuals from "exploiting our generosity" and abusing the visa system. Since 2021, over 135,000 asylum seekers have entered the UK through legal routes, with students making up a significant portion of these claims. Despite measures taken in 2025 to reduce student asylum claims by 20%, those arriving on study visas still account for 13% of all claims. This announcement reflects the broader political climate in the UK, where migration has become a contentious issue. The hard-right Reform UK party's rise in opinion polls, fueled by its anti-migration stance, underscores the government's need to address public concerns over asylum numbers and irregular crossings. While the UK continues to offer refuge to those fleeing war and persecution, the focus is now on tightening visa policies to prevent misuse. The move also highlights the challenges faced by the UK in managing migration flows. Smuggling routes, such as small boats crossing the English Channel from France, have strained border controls, while legal pathways like study visas are being increasingly targeted for abuse. The Home Office's decision to suspend education and work visas for specific nationalities is part of a larger strategy to reduce asylum claims without compromising

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Originally published on AllAfrica on 3/4/2026