Antigua and Barbuda proposes limits on third-country nationals and citizenship revocation

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced several significant policy shifts for Antigua and Barbuda regarding immigration, citizenship, and economic development.

In response to a United States proposal, the government has countered with a plan to accept a maximum of 28 third-country nationals per year, or seven per quarter. Browne rejected an initial US request to accept seven individuals per month. The counter-proposal includes safeguards such as requiring valid travel documents for all accepted individuals and seeking guaranteed financial support through the International Organization for Migration.

Additionally, the government intends to revoke the citizenship of naturalized citizens who commit serious crimes. Following the completion of any prison sentences, these individuals will face deportation. Browne stated that the Cabinet has already decided on this policy as part of a broader effort to address crime and violence.

On the economic front, there are growing efforts to develop the nation’s cannabis sector into a tourism industry. Proponents suggest that the country’s tropical climate and cultural heritage could support cannabis tourism, building upon the existing regulatory framework established by the Cannabis Act of 2018.