The United States has suspended visa processing for nationals of St Vincent and the Grenadines as part of a sweeping immigration move affecting 75 countries worldwide, according to reports emerging from Washington.
The decision, confirmed by a US State Department spokesperson on Wednesday, forms part of an indefinite pause on visa issuance while American authorities review existing immigration and security procedures. The suspension is expected to take effect from January 21.
St Vincent and the Grenadines is among several Caribbean nations included in the reported list. Other regional countries potentially impacted are Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Grenada, Haiti, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Saint Lucia.
While US officials have not released full operational details, the reported directive instructs American embassies and consulates to refuse visa applications under existing law during the review period. No timeline has been given for when processing may resume.
The pause reportedly applies to all visa categories, including visitor, student, work and family-based visas. This has raised concerns locally, particularly among Vincentians with pending applications, students preparing for studies abroad, and families awaiting reunification.
According to US media outlet Fox News, which first reported the development, the move is linked to a broader immigration crackdown being pursued by the administration of President Donald Trump. Since returning to office last year, Trump has intensified restrictions on migration, citing national security and border control concerns.
In November, President Trump publicly stated his intention to “permanently pause” migration from what he described as “Third World countries,” following a deadly incident near the White House involving an Afghan national.
Beyond the Caribbean, countries reportedly affected include Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Brazil, Nigeria, Pakistan, Thailand and several nations across Africa, Asia, Europe and South America.
As of Wednesday, the US State Department has not clarified whether humanitarian exceptions will apply or how long the reassessment process will last.
The Government of St Vincent and the Grenadines has not yet issued an official response. Cliplet News understands that regional diplomatic channels are monitoring the situation closely, as the suspension could have significant implications for travel, education, employment opportunities and family ties between SVG and the United States.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available from US authorities.
