Governor General Hosts Immigration Seminar for Diplomatic Corps

Government House was the venue on Wednesday for a unique gathering of the diplomatic and consular corps, as Governor General Sir Rodney Williams hosted an immigration seminar in partnership with the Department of Immigration.

The event brought together ambassadors, resident commissioners, honorary consuls, and protocol officials for a detailed look at how Antigua and Barbuda manages applications for residency, permanent residence, and citizenship.

Chief Immigration Officer Katrina Yearwood, supported by her senior officers, led the presentations, breaking down the application process, eligibility criteria, and required documentation. She also highlighted the department’s efforts to make the system more transparent, including the release of a new information brochure.

In his welcome address, Sir Rodney described diplomats as “vital bridges between their nationals and our institutions,” noting that better awareness of immigration rules will benefit both foreign residents and local authorities. He thanked Attorney General and Minister of Immigration Sir Steadroy Benjamin for endorsing the initiative and praised the Immigration Department for making the process more accessible.

Among the attendees were ambassadors from China, the Dominican Republic, the United Kingdom, and Cuba, along with other consular representatives. The Chief Protocol Officer was also present to lend support.

The seminar concluded with an open discussion, during which participants raised questions and shared observations. Yearwood assured the gathering that her department would continue engaging with the diplomatic community to refine and improve immigration services.