CARICOM troubled by U.S. restrictions on Antiguans and Dominicans

Dec 20, 2025 News

…said decision taken without prior consultation; calls for urgent engagement between U.S. and affected states

(Kaieteur News) – The Bureau of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on Friday said it has noted with concern the proclamation issued by the Government of the United States on December 16, 2025 imposing partial entry restrictions on nationals of Antigua and Barbuda and the Commonwealth of Dominica.

“The Bureau recognises the right of countries to implement policies regulating entry to their borders. Nevertheless, the Bureau expresses concern that this decision was taken without prior consultation, especially in circumstances of its potential adverse effects on legitimate travel, people-to-people exchanges, and the social and economic well-being of these small states,” a statement issued by the CARICOM Secretariat said.

According to the statement, CARICOM is also concerned about the lack of clarity regarding the status of existing visas after January 1, 2026.

“The Bureau urges an early engagement by the United States with the Governments of Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica to clarify the proclamation and address outstanding concerns, consistent with the strong and longstanding partnership between the United States of America and CARICOM.”

CARICOM said it remains committed to dialogue and cooperation based on mutual respect, shared interests and the rule of law as we seek to secure the prosperity of the region and its citizens.

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Antiguans, CARICOM, Commonwealth, Dominicans, U.S. restrictions

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