Antigua and Barbuda has reached an agreement with the United States on visa entry for its nationals. The agreement allows current visa holders to continue traveling to the US.

According to Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States, Sir Ronald Sanders, the decision applies to all valid visas. These include B-1, B-2, J, and M categories. Therefore, tourist, business, and student visas remain valid.

Importantly, no existing visas will be revoked before December 31, 2025. Sir Ronald confirmed this in an official statement issued on Friday.

Earlier this week, the government said it was actively engaged with US officials. These talks followed President Donald Trump’s executive order on travel restrictions. The order affected Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, and Haiti.

Under the order, some nationals from these countries faced full or partial entry restrictions. The US cited concerns about screening and information sharing.

President Trump also referenced Citizenship by Investment programs. He said some countries offered citizenship without residency. As a result, US officials raised vetting concerns.

Antigua and Barbuda operates a Citizenship by Investment program. Dominica operates a similar program. Both were cited in the proclamation.

Initially, the order stated entry would be suspended for certain visa categories. These included immigrant and nonimmigrant visas. The order also called for reduced visa validity where allowed by law.

Following the announcement, Prime Minister Gaston Browne directed further engagement. Sir Ronald Sanders then met senior US State Department officials.

During the meeting, officials reviewed the proclamation issued on December 16. They discussed its impact on Antigua and Barbuda nationals.

As a result, both sides confirmed key clarifications. Current visa holders may still enter the United States. No cancellations will occur before the end of 2025.

However, new visa applications after January 1, 2026 will follow new rules. These rules are still under discussion with Caribbean countries.

Specifically, the US plans to require updated biometric data. Antigua and Barbuda will align its systems with US technology.

Sir Ronald said the process will remain familiar. Only the technology will change. The system will apply to all citizens.

This includes citizens by birth, descent, naturalisation, and investment.

Sir Ronald thanked US officials for constructive engagement. He also reaffirmed Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to cooperation.

He said the country respects US national security responsibilities. He added that Antigua and Barbuda will continue close collaboration.

Finally, Sir Ronald said the government welcomed the clarity achieved. Talks will continue to protect legitimate travel between both countries.

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