BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) is once again urging nationals of St. Kitts and Nevis to strictly adhere to U.S. immigration laws and avoid overstaying their visitor visas. This comes amid heightened enforcement efforts by the Donald Trump administration targeting visa overstays and illegal migration.
Since taking office in January, the U.S. administration has intensified deportation efforts against individuals found to be in violation of immigration laws — including those who are undocumented, have overstayed their visas, or have committed criminal offenses. In some instances, even Green Card holders and individuals with no criminal history have been affected.
In a media release issued yesterday, MOFA highlighted recent changes to U.S. immigration policies and the strict enforcement of existing laws. Of particular concern are individuals who enter or remain in the U.S. illegally.
The U.S. Embassy in Barbados has provided guidance to MOFA, emphasizing that there is no automatic right to remain in the United States. Nationals who overstay their authorized period of stay or breach the terms of their admission may face serious legal consequences, including visa revocation and deportation.
The U.S. has also intensified efforts to revoke visas in cases of violation and is cracking down on individuals and networks facilitating illegal migration. Officials noted a "zero-tolerance policy" for illegal entry.
In response to an inquiry by SKNVibes, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Hilroy Brandy, confirmed that nine nationals have been deported from the U.S. so far this year.
Additionally, the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP), under the Department of Homeland Security, has announced opportunities for undocumented individuals to voluntarily return to their home country or another country where they have legal status. Support may include assistance with travel documentation and financial aid.
The Ministry continues to urge all nationals to be responsible when traveling abroad and to comply with all immigration rules and regulations of host countries.
