WASHINGTON, DC — HOLDERS of passports from OECS member states could soon face stricter U.S. visa scrutiny, following recent actions taken by the Donald Trump administration against Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda.
In a late afternoon statement, Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States, Sir Ronald Sanders, explained that nationals of his country would not face visa revocations for travel documents issued prior to December 31, 2025.
However, he noted that new visa applications submitted after that date would be subject to new arrangements still being negotiated with several Caribbean countries, including Antigua and Barbuda.
According to Sanders, the new arrangements are focused on the collection of biometric information from Antigua and Barbuda passport holders to ensure full compatibility with United States biometric systems.
He added that the process of gathering biometric data would not differ from what already applies to all Antigua and Barbuda citizens, but that the technology used would be upgraded to align with U.S. requirements.
“This alignment of biometric data systems will apply to all citizens of Antigua and Barbuda, including citizens by birth, descent, naturalisation, or investment,” Sanders said.
Meanwhile, Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne stated in a social media post that new visas for OECS countries could be suspended until biometric passport systems are established to meet U.S. specifications.
