United Progressive Party (UPP) candidate for St. John’s Rural East, Ashworth Azille, has warned that Antiguans and Barbudans could face new visa restrictions from the United Kingdom and European Union, citing concerns about the country’s international travel standing.
Speaking in a recorded message, Azille said he had received information from “credible sources” suggesting that the United Kingdom may soon impose visa requirements on nationals seeking entry.
“It is my understanding… that we are also under pressure from the United Kingdom, who may soon implement visa restrictions for Antiguans and Barbudans,” he said.
He added that the European Union has also issued what he described as an ultimatum, warning that visa-free access to the Schengen area could be at risk if changes are not made.
“Even the EU has given us an ultimatum… to fix our systems… otherwise we will ensure that there are visa restrictions placed on Antigua and Barbuda,” Azille said.
Azille linked the potential restrictions to concerns about the integrity of the country’s Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP), arguing that policy decisions have undermined confidence in Antigua and Barbuda’s passport.
“The value of the Antigua and Barbuda passport… has been compromised,” he said.
He also pointed to existing travel challenges involving the United States, including high visa refusal rates and shortened stay durations for travellers.
“The refusal rates… are ridiculously high,” Azille said, adding that even approved visitors are now being limited to shorter stays.
Azille said these developments could affect citizens’ ability to visit family and conduct travel abroad, arguing that ordinary Antiguans and Barbudans should not bear the consequences of policy decisions.
“The people of Antigua and Barbuda should not have to suffer,” he said.
His comments come amid a political campaign ahead of an anticipated general election, with Azille positioning the UPP as an alternative focused on governance reforms and restoring confidence in national systems.