ST JOHN’S, Antigua — Prime Minister Gaston Browne urges US visa caution for Antiguans and Barbudans, telling citizens to avoid applying unless their situation is “absolutely urgent,” as a more restrictive visa issuance practice takes effect during a wider US immigration policy review.
He said emergency cases, including people seeking critical medical treatment in the United States, may still be considered under what US authorities classify as a national interest exemption. Browne added that, in such circumstances, Antigua and Barbuda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs could write to the US Embassy in Bridgetown to seek consideration.
Foreign Affairs route outlined as Gaston Browne urges US visa caution
Browne said the exemption pathway would be relevant for urgent situations where travel cannot reasonably be postponed, and would involve formal communication from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the US Embassy in Bridgetown, which handles visa services for Antigua and Barbuda.
The Prime Minister’s latest advisory follows earlier public messaging aimed at calming concerns about shifting US policy, including his comments in a previous update in which he sought to reassure residents about the country’s position. That earlier context is outlined here: Gaston Browne assures citizens in Antigua.
For families, business travelers, and students who routinely rely on longer-term visas, the new guidance introduces uncertainty and could increase the time and cost required to plan travel. It also raises practical questions for people who depend on predictable access for recurring medical appointments, family visits, and work-related travel.
New visas reportedly limited to 3 months and single entry
Browne’s remarks come amid confirmation that new visas issued to Antiguans and Barbudans during the current review period may now be limited to a maximum of three months and a single entry. That represents a significant departure from previous practice, when many applicants for tourist and business visas were issued multi-year, multiple-entry visas, commonly valid for up to 10 years.
Under the current approach, newly issued visas during the proclamation period may allow only one entry and must be used within a three-month validity window. Frequent travelers could face repeated applications and tighter scheduling around travel dates if the shorter validity becomes standard during the review period.
Browne said he was informed the change is tied to a broader US immigration policy review and is not intended to single out Antigua and Barbuda permanently. He described the rollout as global in scope, adding that Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica were among the countries affected during the transitional phase.
Details were first reported by Antigua Observer.
