Dominica's Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has called on the United States to reconsider visa restrictions affecting nationals of Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda, as diplomatic talks continue over the policy's consequences for travel, education, and access to medical care.
According to Antigua.news, Skerrit stated that the restrictions have placed a significant burden on citizens who rely on travel to the United States for essential services, and that regional governments remain actively engaged with US authorities in pursuit of a policy review.
Skerrit referenced earlier signals from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicating that Washington would examine its visa arrangements with several countries. However, he noted that no final decision has been announced and the matter remains under active consideration.
The restrictions have been tied to concerns raised by US officials regarding citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programmes operating across the Caribbean. These schemes allow individuals to obtain citizenship without residency requirements — an arrangement Washington has argued can complicate the vetting and screening of travellers entering the United States.
Skerrit said both Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda have moved to strengthen oversight mechanisms and address compliance concerns raised by the United States. He added that discussions are continuing through diplomatic channels, with regional governments maintaining sustained pressure for a resolution.
The issue remains a focal point in relations between Caribbean nations and Washington, as affected countries push for a policy review that accounts for the real-world impact on ordinary citizens.
