Dominican Republic joins Jamaica, the Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Cuba, and others in facing new US travel changes as the old system comes under scrutiny. These shifts target security concerns over Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs, which have prompted the US to reassess its visa policies for several Caribbean nations. While some countries remain unaffected or under observation, others, including the Dominican Republic, are now facing heightened scrutiny or even partial visa suspensions. As the US focuses on ensuring stronger vetting processes, these nations must work to align their CBI programs with international security standards to avoid further restrictions. This shift marks a significant turning point in how the US engages with Caribbean nations in the context of travel and immigration.
Dominican Republic: Under Watch but No Immediate Restrictions
The Dominican Republic is not subject to the new US travel restrictions as of January 1, 2026. However, similar to other Caribbean nations, the country remains under high scrutiny due to concerns over its CBI program and the absence of physical residency requirements. While there are no current visa restrictions, the Dominican Republic must work to meet international security standards to avoid future limitations. The US has been in close communication with the Dominican government to ensure that proper vetting processes are in place, with a deadline to address any potential concerns.
| Visa Type Affected | Impact | Status of Existing Visas |
|---|---|---|
| All Visas | No restrictions | Remains valid |
| CBI Program | Under high scrutiny | N/A |
Jamaica: No Restrictions Amid Growing Scrutiny
Jamaica remains unaffected by the new US travel restrictions, but it is under close observation due to concerns about the overall security and effectiveness of its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. While the country has not faced the same level of scrutiny as other Caribbean nations, Jamaica’s CBI program is being closely monitored to ensure it aligns with international security standards. Jamaica must continue to implement strong vetting processes and meet US expectations to avoid future travel restrictions. As of now, Jamaican nationals can continue to apply for US visas without facing additional hurdles.
| Visa Type Affected | Impact | Status of Existing Visas |
|---|---|---|
| All Visas | No restrictions | Remains valid |
| CBI Program | Under observation | N/A |
Bahamas: No CBI Program, No Restrictions
The Bahamas stands apart from many Caribbean nations, as it does not offer a Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, only residency options. Therefore, the Bahamas is not subject to the new US travel restrictions tied to CBI programs. This distinction ensures that the country remains unaffected by any heightened scrutiny or travel bans targeting CBI nations. Bahamian nationals and residents can continue to apply for US visas as usual, without the added scrutiny placed on countries offering investment-based citizenship opportunities.
| Visa Type Affected | Impact | Status of Existing Visas |
|---|---|---|
| All Visas | No restrictions | Remains valid |
| CBI Program | Not applicable | N/A |
Antigua & Barbuda: Visa Suspensions Spark New Challenges
Starting January 1, 2026, Antigua & Barbuda will face “Partial Restrictions” from the US due to security concerns about its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, particularly the absence of a physical residency requirement. This has led to the suspension of various US visas, including immigrant visas and non-immigrant categories like B-1/B-2 (tourist/business), F (student), M (vocational), and J (exchange). While existing valid visas will remain valid, new applications will face heightened scrutiny and could face denials. This marks a significant shift in the relationship between Antigua & Barbuda and the US, affecting both prospective immigrants and current visa holders.
| Visa Type Affected | Impact | Status of Existing Visas |
|---|---|---|
| Immigrant visas | Suspended | Remains valid |
| B-1/B-2 (Tourist/Business) | Suspended | Remains valid |
| F (Student) | Suspended | Remains valid |
| M (Vocational) | Suspended | Remains valid |
| J (Exchange) | Suspended | Remains valid |
| All Other New Applications | Tougher scrutiny or denial | N/A |
Dominica: Facing Tougher US Scrutiny from January 2026
Dominica will also face similar “Partial Restrictions” starting January 1, 2026, due to concerns surrounding its CBI program’s lack of physical residency requirements. As a result, US visa categories such as immigrant visas, B-1/B-2 (tourist/business), F (student), M (vocational), and J (exchange) will be suspended for applicants from Dominica. Existing valid visas will remain in effect, but consular officers may choose to reduce the validity period for other visa types. These measures are part of the US’s broader push to address national security concerns tied to CBI programs in the Caribbean.
| Visa Type Affected | Impact | Status of Existing Visas |
|---|---|---|
| Immigrant visas | Suspended | Remains valid |
| B-1/B-2 (Tourist/Business) | Suspended | Remains valid |
| F (Student) | Suspended | Remains valid |
| M (Vocational) | Suspended | Remains valid |
| J (Exchange) | Suspended | Remains valid |
| All Other New Applications | Tougher scrutiny or denial | N/A |
Saint Lucia: Under Scrutiny but Still Unrestricted
Saint Lucia, although not restricted under the new US travel rules, remains under close scrutiny following a memo from June 2025. The country was given 60 days to meet new security benchmarks concerning its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. The government of Saint Lucia has defended its vetting process, noting that they have already implemented several security measures suggested by US officials. However, continued monitoring is in place, and the country must align with international security standards to avoid future restrictions, ensuring the longevity of its CBI program without US sanctions.
| Visa Type Affected | Impact | Status of Existing Visas |
|---|---|---|
| All Visas | No restrictions | Remains valid |
| CBI Program | Under scrutiny | N/A |
Cuba: Partial Restrictions Persist Amid Geopolitical Tensions
Cuba continues to face Partial Restrictions under US travel policies. These restrictions primarily target government officials and their immediate family members, reflecting ongoing tensions between the two nations. While not a complete ban, these measures impose significant limitations on certain Cuban nationals seeking to travel to the US. The US maintains these restrictions as part of its broader geopolitical strategy regarding Cuba, with a focus on individuals linked to the Cuban government rather than the general population.
| Visa Type Affected | Impact | Status of Existing Visas |
|---|---|---|
| Government Officials & Family | Restricted | May be denied |
| General Public | No restrictions | Remains valid |
Dominican Republic joins Jamaica, the Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Cuba, and others in facing new US travel changes as the old system comes under scrutiny. These shifts target security concerns over Citizenship by Investment programs.
Conclusion
Dominican Republic, along with Jamaica, the Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Cuba, and others, now faces new travel changes in the US as the old system comes under heightened scrutiny. These changes are driven by increasing concerns over the security and effectiveness of Citizenship by Investment programs in these nations. While some countries have managed to avoid direct restrictions, the overall shift reflects the US’s push for stricter vetting processes. As these countries work to meet the new security benchmarks, their ability to maintain smooth travel relations with the US will depend on their compliance with international standards, ensuring both tourism growth and security for the future.
The post Dominican Republic Joins Jamaica, Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Cuba, and Others in Facing New Travel Changes in the US as the Old System Comes Under Scrutiny: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
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