Government clarifies U.S. visa bond concerns, engages Washington on treatment of Antiguans

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has moved to calm public concern following reports that Antiguan and Barbudan nationals could, in limited cases, be required to post a visa bond when applying for a visitor visa to the United States.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the government emphasized that no bond applies to holders of existing U.S. visas, which remain valid under their current terms. Officials also clarified that while Antigua and Barbuda has been included in a U.S. Visa Bond Pilot Program, the measure applies only to a very narrow category of new visa applicants who meet specific exceptions. The bond, authorities stressed, does not apply to all travelers and does not guarantee or deny the issuance of a visa.

According to the statement, U.S. authorities have indicated that the bond is intended to encourage compliance with immigration rules, particularly timely departure. The government acknowledged that a small number of cases involving overstays and unpaid public expenses—such as hospital bills—have occurred in the past, noting that such actions can negatively affect legitimate travelers.

On the instructions of Gaston Browne, Antigua and Barbuda has re-engaged directly with the U.S. State Department at senior levels. A formal diplomatic note has been submitted outlining the country’s record, which officials say shows consistently low visitor overstay rates, significantly below those of several countries not subject to bond requirements. The government also highlighted its long-standing cooperation with the United States on immigration compliance and security matters.

The administration said its objective is to ensure Antiguan and Barbudan passport holders are treated no less favourably than nationals of other CARICOM countries, and that visa processing remains fair and reasonable.

“Discussions are ongoing, serious, measured, and persistent,” the statement said, adding that while outcomes in international diplomacy are never guaranteed, the government believes there is room for a correction to the measure.

In the meantime, citizens traveling abroad were urged to fully respect immigration laws and meet personal obligations, as the conduct of a few can affect the many. The government pledged to keep the public informed as talks continue and reaffirmed its commitment to defending the interests of Antigua and Barbuda and its people.