The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has expressed serious concern over new US travel restrictions on its nationals, set to take effect on 1 January 2026.
Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin said the announcement had caused alarm within the government and unease among citizens, many of whom travel regularly to the United States for medical care, education, business and leisure. He said the decision came as a surprise to both officials and nationals at home and abroad.
Sir Steadroy said the government would engage the United States at the highest diplomatic levels in an effort to resolve the matter swiftly, stressing the importance of the long-standing relationship between the two countries.
He also addressed concerns surrounding Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Programme, saying the country had cooperated fully with US authorities and acted on all recommendations to strengthen its security and integrity. He noted that the residency requirement had recently been reinforced through parliamentary action, increasing the minimum stay to 30 days.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne said he would take an active role in diplomatic efforts to resolve the issue and protect the interests of Antiguan and Barbudan nationals.
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The attorney general, Steadroy Benjamin, should not be the one communicating with the US government officials because I fear he would say like he always say, there are no risk to US national security as Antigua and Barbuda is the safest Caribbean Island, completely ignoring risk. Literally failing to appreciate concerns, mitigating risk, and providing assurance.
Please ABLP AG Benjamin, do not participate, you and PM Browne please don’t say anything at all. The United Islands of Antigua and Barbuda (UIA&B) has a better chance if you stay silent.