Antigua and Barbuda Stands Firm Against U.S. Visa Restriction Threats; Defends Its CIP
“We will not be bullied. Our foreign policy is one of principle”.
These were the remarks of Foreign Affairs Minister E.P Chet Greene regarding alleged threats by the United States to impose visa restrictions on several countries, including Antigua and Barbuda.
Over the weekend, the Washington Post reported that the leaked memo identified Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia, potentially facing U.S. visa restrictions unless they meet new immigration standards within 60 days.
In defense of the country’s Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) Greene told reporters that “Antigua and Barbuda will be ‘fighting like hell’ to defend the CIP programme. “They want to impose travel restrictions on us; for what reason, God only knows”, he said.
Minister Greene noted that the CIP programme benefits Antigua and Barbuda and is operated with integrity.
“We know that Charmaine Donovan (CEO of Antigua & Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) and her staff are all people of impeccable character and that this nation’s integrity is not to be questioned where their work is concerned,” he said.
Antigua and Barbuda has offered an economic route to citizenship since 2013, with a minimum investment of $230,000.
The CBI program allows applicants to obtain second citizenship and a Caribbean passport. It is based on economic donations to the nation.
The program has contributed significantly to the economy of the country.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/06/17/antigua-and-barbuda-stands-firm-against-u-s-visa-restriction-threats-defends-its-cip. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS CONTINUE TO BENEFIT FROM SANDALS FOUNDATION’S CARE FOR KIDS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME
Kyrah Edwards and Erwin Christopher receive third annual scholarship payments, supporting their education while encouraging community service.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Chinese Embassy Welcomes Caribbean Youth Parliamentarians for Cultural Exchange
Ambassador Jiang Wei calls for greater understanding through dialogue, while House Speaker Osbert Frederick praises the young leaders.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
LETTER: A Safe Reunion Should Not End Questions About a Child’s Welfare
Delores Harris calls for greater accountability and child protection measures following the safe reunion of a young child found wandering alone.
By Editorial Staff
Browne Demands Climate Finance and Action to Protect Small Island States
Speaking in Australia, the Prime Minister urged major emitters and financial institutions to turn climate commitments into practical support for vulnerable nations.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Comments (6)
WhoNeedsUSA June 17, 2025, 8:05 AM
Donna June 17, 2025, 8:13 AM
I agree that no country should tell us what to do or how to run our country affairs. Let them keep their visas—America was and is built on immigrants. The president of America should know that because his mother was an immigrant like us who seek visa to vacation and shop there.
I glad to see how the young president Ibrahim Traore is handling any outsiders meddling into Africa affairs, especially his country, Burkina Faso.
Another thing, Antigua and Barbuda need to stop selling criminals our passport through the CIP program.
Reasonable Reasoner June 17, 2025, 9:44 AM
Informed citizen June 17, 2025, 7:19 PM
Devorn Carter June 17, 2025, 12:05 PM
Juju Bee June 19, 2025, 12:01 AM