Antigua students are rushing back to the United States as visa rule changes take effect this week.
Across the Caribbean, many students are cutting vacations short to avoid travel problems.

This sudden movement follows a recent decision by the Trump administration.
Washington announced the suspension of some visa categories for citizens of Antigua and Dominica.
As a result, uncertainty spread quickly among students studying in the US.

Initially, the US cited concerns over Caribbean citizenship-by-investment programs.
Officials argued that selling passports weakens background checks.
Therefore, they claimed the system poses security risks.

However, Caribbean leaders pushed back almost immediately.
They held emergency talks with the US State Department.
Afterward, both sides reached a temporary understanding.

Now, students with valid visas may still enter the United States.
Even so, anxiety remains high among families and campuses.
Consequently, many students chose not to wait.

According to the Antigua Observer, dozens of students already returned to the US.
They left Antigua and Barbuda earlier than planned.
Most had been home enjoying the Christmas holidays.

Meanwhile, Dominican Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit addressed the issue publicly.
He said the temporary agreement should ease national anxiety.
Still, he stressed that discussions with Washington continue.

Similarly, Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne confirmed ongoing talks.
He said his government is working toward a full resolution.
For now, officials aim to protect students and travelers.

In addition, the visa issue has sparked political debate in Dominica.
The opposition United Progressive Party mentioned it in its New Year message.
Party leader Joshua Francis called for quick action.

He said Dominicans want free travel restored to the US.
He also mentioned lost access to Ireland, Norway, and the UK.
According to him, these routes matter for work, study, and family ties.

Beyond travel, Francis urged broader global engagement.
He called for new partnerships in trade, education, and technology.
Likewise, regional leaders echoed similar concerns.

Overall, students remain cautious.
Until talks conclude, uncertainty will likely persist.
For now, many prefer to return early rather than risk delays.

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