Prime Minister Browne Advocates for Continued Visa-Free Access to the EU

Prime Minister Gaston Browne is actively seeking to persuade the European Union (EU) to reconsider its decision to terminate visa-free access for holders of Antiguan and Barbudan passports.

The European Commission has revised its visa suspension mechanism, introducing new criteria for the potential suspension of visa-free travel, which might impact Antigua and Barbuda along with other nations.

According to the official European Commission report, the revised rules specifically address security concerns, irregular migration, and the risks posed by investor citizenship programs, commonly referred to as ‘golden passports’ for third countries with visa waiver agreements.

During a recent courtesy visit from members of the EU delegation, who were in the country for the 55th Regular Session of the Organisation of American States (OAS) General Assembly, Browne emphasized the importance of this access for the nation.

“We recognize that the European Union has adopted protocols that could lead to the cessation of visa-free access,” Browne stated.

“However, we are hopeful that through negotiations, we can achieve a compromise that allows us to maintain this vital access while also addressing any concerns the EU may have about the security of our programs.”

The Prime Minister highlighted the critical role that Citizenship by Investment (CIP) programs play for the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). He noted that for Antigua and Barbuda, these programs account for about 10% of overall revenues, but for other OECS nations, this figure can reach as high as 60%.

Browne warned that the disruption of these programs would have devastating consequences for the region. “We have a consultative mechanism that fosters cooperation with North American and European partners to fortify our programs,” he added.