Government Releases U.S. Proposal and Antigua and Barbuda Counter-Proposal on Third-Country Nationals

Antigua and Barbuda has released a U.S. proposal for the possible transfer of third-country nationals removed from the United States, along with its own counter-proposal setting out conditions under which it might consider accepting them.

The government stressed that no agreement has been concluded. Talks between the two countries are continuing, and Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin is expected to table both documents in the House of Representatives.

Under Antigua and Barbuda’s counter-proposal, each proposed transfer would require the government’s express written approval in advance. The country would retain the right to refuse any individual. The proposal also sets a ceiling of seven people in any three-month period, which the government said is a maximum, not a commitment to accept that number.

The conditions call for individual criminal and security screening, checks of health and immigration history, consideration of any protection claims, and valid travel documents. Each person would also have to be told that Antigua and Barbuda is the destination, understand that the arrangement is temporary and indicate in writing a willingness to be transferred.

The government said admission and temporary presence would be governed by Antigua and Barbuda’s laws. It is also seeking financial and operational arrangements to prevent the costs of transfers and temporary stays from falling on local taxpayers, as well as arrangements for lawful return or onward placement when a person’s stay ends.

The counter-proposal would allow Antigua and Barbuda to suspend further transfers over national security, public order, public health, capacity, financial or other serious concerns. It also raises the possibility of a supporting role for the International Organization for Migration, subject to appropriate arrangements.

The government described the talks as a response to a U.S. request made as part of a wider initiative involving countries in several regions, including the Caribbean. It said it would continue discussions while protecting Antigua and Barbuda’s sovereignty, laws and national interests.