U.S. Travel Ban Targets Two Caribbean States, Flags Another for Review

An image from the White House’s proclamation post.

By Val Matthias. Updated 6:49 p.m., Tuesday, December 16, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

The United States has expanded its travel restrictions to include Cuba and Dominica, citing “persistent and severe deficiencies in screening, vetting, and information‑sharing.” The presidential proclamation also singled out Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship‑by‑investment (CBI) program, noting that it has historically granted citizenship without residency requirements, a practice Washington views as a security risk.

The proclamation, signed by President Donald Trump, blocks or limits entry for nationals of 19 countries. Cuba’s inclusion reflects longstanding tensions with Washington, while Dominica’s designation is tied directly to U.S. concerns about its CBI program and weak vetting systems.

Although Antigua and Barbuda was not added to the restricted list, the explicit reference to its program signals heightened U.S. scrutiny of Caribbean states that operate similar schemes. Other OECS members including St. Kitts and Nevis, Grenada, and St. Lucia may also face questions about the integrity of their passport programs, which provide critical revenue streams for small island economies.

Regional analysts warn that the U.S. action could undermine the credibility of Caribbean passports internationally, affecting tourism, student exchanges, and business travel. For Dominica, the restrictions may directly impact families and investors who rely on mobility under its CBI program. For Cuba, the proclamation reinforces existing barriers to migration and travel.

Diplomatic observers expect the matter to be raised urgently within CARICOM and the OECS, as governments weigh the economic risks of losing access to U.S. markets and mobility rights. Advocacy groups argue that the expanded travel ban disproportionately penalizes small island states rather than addressing systemic global security challenges.

The proclamation took effect immediately and will remain in force until modified or revoked by future executive action.

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