Prime Minister Gaston Browne says his Government remains hopeful that new United States visa restrictions on Antiguan and Barbudan citizens will be lifted, warning that the measures are disrupting travel for families, students and businesses.

Speaking on the sidelines of the 51st CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting in Saint Lucia, Browne said the revised policy is creating challenges for citizens travelling to the US for education, business and to visit relatives.

The changes reduce visitor visas from the previous 10-year multiple-entry permits to single-entry visas valid for three months. Some applicants may also be required to pay a bond of up to US$15,000. The restrictions were introduced following US concerns over Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme.

Browne said the Government has not received official confirmation from Washington on whether the measures will continue but remains optimistic they were intended to be temporary.

He stressed that Antigua and Barbuda continues to value its close relationship with the United States, describing it as the country’s most important development partner and largest source of imports and visitors.

The Prime Minister also confirmed that discussions are continuing over a proposed agreement to accept third-country nationals deported from the US. He said Antigua and Barbuda is willing to participate, provided any arrangement protects national security and prevents individuals with criminal backgrounds from entering the country.

Browne said his Government will continue working with US officials in the hope of restoring the previous visa arrangements while maintaining strong diplomatic and economic ties.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: PM Browne Hopes US Will Lift Visa Restrictions Affecting Antiguans.