Only two Namibians repatriated from UK so far

The Ministry of International Relations and Trade has confirmed that only two Namibian nationals - out of a possible 2 300 - have been repatriated from the United Kingdom (UK) so far under the bilateral return agreement.In November 2025, British Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood warned that the UK might suspend or restrict visas for Namibian citizens - including government officials, business leaders and other VIP travelers - unless Namibia stepped up cooperation in accepting the return of failed asylum seekers and other illegal migrants. In December, Namibia agreed to take back illegal migrants and convicted criminals of Namibian nationality living in the UK.Speaking to Namibian Sun, acting executive director of the ministry, Julia Imene-Chanduru, said one Namibian had already returned, while a second person was expected shortly. Between January and September 2025, according to UK Home Office data provided to the Namibian High Commission in London, a total of 15 Namibians returned voluntarily, including 12 who opted for voluntary repatriation.“During 2025, the UK Home Office also informed the [Namibian mission in the UK] that approximately 2 353 Namibian citizens in the UK are potentially subject to return,” Imene-Chanduru said. She emphasized, however, that only a small proportion of these individuals are currently under active return procedures.The ministry explained that delays are largely due to individuals having no contact with British authorities, being involved in ongoing legal proceedings, or facing legal obstacles that prevent immediate return.Voluntary returns supported by UKThe UK prefers voluntary returns, offering financial assistance of up to €3 000 (around N$65 420) through its voluntary returns service to facilitate travel. “The UK government can also cover travel costs and provide reintegration support,” Imene-Chanduru said, noting that this assistance is generally limited to individuals who have lived in the UK for at least six months.Namibia plays a supporting role in the process. The Ministry of International Relations and Trade works closely with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, and the UK Home Office to ensure the safe and orderly return of Namibian nationals while preserving the country’s sovereignty and diplomatic relations.Repatriation procedures involve verifying a person’s Namibian nationality with the Ministry of Home Affairs, confirming it with the UK Home Office, and organising travel logistics. An emergency travel certificate (ETC) is issued for signature. If the individual refuses, the process continues using supporting documents, including a formal letter of refusal and correspondence from both the Namibian High Commission and the UK government.No further extension for overstayers in NamibiaSeparately, Namibia’s Ministry of Home Affairs recently extended an amnesty period for foreigners who overstayed their entry permits in the country. Initially set from 15 December 2025 to 16 January 2026, the amnesty has now been extended until 20 January 2026. The extension allows affected foreigners to voluntarily regularize their status or leave the country without facing arrest, detention, prosecution, or penalties for overstays.Ministry spokeswoman Margaret Kalo warned that no further extensions will be granted and that non-compliance will result in enforcement action. She urged affected individuals to report to the nearest immigration office or border post during the amnesty period, noting that all travel expenses under the program must be borne by the individuals themselves.

Only two Namibians repatriated from UK so far

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Namibian Sun 2026-01-23

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Only two Namibians repatriated from UK so far

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Namibian Sun 2026-01-23

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