The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has sought to calm public concern over reports that some nationals may be required to post refundable visa bonds when applying for U.S. visitor visas, saying the measure affects only a very limited category of new applicants under a pilot programme.
Cabinet said existing U.S. visa holders are not impacted and stressed that the bond does not guarantee, nor automatically deny, visa approval. It added that Antigua and Barbuda was not given advance notice of the announcement by the United States, contributing to confusion locally and across the region.
While acknowledging isolated cases of overstays or unpaid public expenses abroad, Cabinet said Antigua and Barbuda maintains a low overstay rate and a strong record of cooperation with U.S. authorities.
At the Prime Minister’s direction, formal diplomatic engagement has begun at the highest levels, including the submission of a diplomatic note, as the government seeks fair and equal treatment for Antiguan and Barbudan passport holders.
