Antigua and Barbuda Establishes New US Visa System Amidst American Restrictions
Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced a significant initiative today. His government is establishing a new system. This system will handle the issuance of U.S. visas. The move follows new restrictions imposed by the United States. These partial restrictions took effect on January 1, 2026. The government aims for an orderly process.
US Imposes New Travel and Visa Restrictions
The United States issued a presidential proclamation on December 16, 2025. This proclamation targeted several countries. It included Antigua and Barbuda. The U.S. cited national security concerns. It also cited immigration enforcement and counter-terrorism. Specifically, U.S. officials raised concerns about Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs. They noted that Antigua and Barbuda historically offered CBI without a residency requirement. This was seen as a potential risk for screening and vetting. The restrictions aim to prevent entry of foreign nationals about whom the U.S. lacks sufficient information.
Impact on Visa Holders and Applicants
These new measures do not constitute a complete travel ban. However, they introduce partial restrictions for Antiguan and Barbudan nationals. The U.S. suspended entry for those seeking immigrant visas. It also suspended certain non-immigrant visa categories. This includes B-1 (business), B-2 (tourist), F (student), M (vocational), and J (exchange visitor) visas. Consular officers may also reduce the validity of other nonimmigrant visas.
Existing visas remain valid. All valid U.S. visas issued before December 31, 2025, will be honored. This assurance applies to tourist, business, student, and other valid visa categories. However, new visa applications submitted after January 1, 2026, face stricter scrutiny.
Antigua and Barbuda’s Diplomatic Response
Prime Minister Gaston Browne stated his government is actively engaged with U.S. authorities. Ambassador to the United States, Sir Ronald Sanders, met with senior State Department officials. These discussions were held at Prime Minister Browne’s direction. The engagement aimed to clarify the proclamation’s implications. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to a cooperative relationship. Antigua and Barbuda respects U.S. national security responsibilities. The government pledged to work closely with U.S. authorities.
Key agreements were reached. Existing visas will not be revoked. This provides crucial reassurance to citizens. Furthermore, discussions are underway for new visa arrangements. These will focus on orderly issuance.
Developing a New Visa Issuance System
Prime Minister Browne addressed the nation on January 1, 2026. He acknowledged public concern. He reassured citizens that existing visas remain valid. The government has already begun diligent work. This work focuses on establishing a system for new visa issuance. The goal is an orderly and systematic process. New arrangements will likely involve updated biometric data collection. This ensures compatibility with U.S. systems. Antigua and Barbuda plans to approach the situation through diplomacy.
Addressing CBI Concerns
The U.S. concerns centered on the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. Antigua and Barbuda’s parliament recently enacted new legislation. This legislation strengthens due diligence and transparency. It also introduced a mandatory 30-day physical residency requirement. This contradicts the U.S. assertion of no residency requirement. The government is considering further adjustments. This might include extending the physical presence requirement. These steps aim to address U.S. security vetting concerns.
Looking Ahead for the Caribbean
This situation highlights broader issues for the Caribbean region. Other Caribbean nations with CBI programs also face increased scrutiny. The U.S. actions underscore the importance of robust security and information-sharing protocols. Antigua and Barbuda emphasizes its long-standing relationship with the United States. The government remains committed to productive dialogue. This commitment aims to protect citizens’ interests and preserve legitimate travel. News of these developments impacts many across the region today.
Antigua and Barbuda’s government is dedicated to resolving these challenges. They seek to maintain strong people-to-people exchanges. The work on the new visa system is a priority. Diplomacy and constructive engagement guide their efforts. The nation looks forward to continued cooperation.