Dominica Seeks Urgent Dialogue with U.S. Over Visa Restrictions as Skerrit and Gaston Browne Hold Talks

The Government of Dominica has formally written to the President of the United States seeking clarification and urgent dialogue following a Presidential Proclamation issued on December 16, 2025, which announced partial restrictions on the entry of Dominican nationals into the United States.

In a statement, the Government said it respects the sovereign right of the United States to protect its national security and public safety and shares those objectives.

However, it expressed concern that Dominica was included in the Proclamation despite what it described as extensive and ongoing cooperation with U.S. authorities, as well as sweeping reforms already implemented to its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme.

The Government noted that over the past several years—and particularly throughout 2024 and 2025—Dominica has engaged closely with the United States through multiple channels, including the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Embassy of Dominica in Washington, D.C., and in coordination with the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank on behalf of OECS Member States. These engagements, it said, were aimed at addressing all concerns raised by U.S. officials regarding CBI operations.

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has also held discussions with Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda on the issue, as regional leaders continue to coordinate responses and share information in light of the Proclamation’s potential impact on OECS countries.

On October 14, 2025, Dominica became the first OECS Member State to enact comprehensive legislative reforms to its CBI Programme. These reforms include enhanced residency requirements, stricter controls on name changes, strengthened due diligence and background checks, increased financial transparency, and the establishment of an independent regulatory authority to ensure the programme meets the highest international standards.

Given these developments, the Government of Dominica is seeking clarification on whether the measures already implemented satisfy the conditions referenced in the Proclamation. Where gaps may still exist, the Government has asked for guidance on any additional actions required. It has also requested urgent engagement with U.S. authorities, ideally ahead of the January 1, 2026 implementation date, in keeping with the spirit of partnership and dialogue outlined in the Proclamation itself.

Dominica reiterated that it values its strong and long-standing relationship with the United States, including close cooperation in maritime security and regional stability.

The Government stressed that any threat to the United States is likewise a threat to Dominica and the wider Caribbean, and reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, cooperation, and shared security objectives.

The Government said it remains open to dialogue at all levels and looks forward to constructive engagement with U.S. authorities to resolve the matter in a way that reflects mutual respect and the strength of the bilateral relationship between both nations.