Trinidad and Tobago Express Concerns Over UK’s Visa Policy Change
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – The government of Trinidad and Tobago expressed significant concern on Friday regarding the United Kingdom’s recent decision to implement visa restrictions on citizens from this oil-rich Caribbean nation, effective immediately.
Dr. Amery Browne, CARICOM and Foreign Affairs Minister, discussed the issue during a local radio segment. He indicated that the government may not have been adequately prepared for London’s announcement, despite acknowledging receipt of a 48-hour advance notice.
Browne explained to listeners that only two days’ notice was provided before the UK officially declared its new visa regime beginning Wednesday of that week. “Yes, we received some warning; however, two days is far from sufficient when addressing such an important matter with allies,” he stated.
The minister emphasized the long-standing relationship between Trinidad and Tobago and the UK: “Our history with Britain is extensive; we have cultivated strong bonds over many years leading to meaningful connections within our diaspora.” He further noted that these ties extend beyond personal relationships; many students pursue education in the UK while families often rely on it for vital transit towards other international destinations.
According to London’s announcement, nationals from Trinidad and Tobago will now require a visa not just for travel but also for transiting through British territory—an alteration affecting short visits as well as work or study purposes in Britain.
The UK has specified a six-week adjustment phase until 15:00 on April 23, 2025. Travelers who had booked their flights prior to this change could still enter without needing a visa if they secured an electronic travel authorization (ETA). The transition period also applies to those merely passing through British ports en route elsewhere.
The statement issued by John Dean, British High Commissioner in Trinidad and Tobago highlighted ongoing evaluations of UK immigration policies aimed at maintaining efficacy. Dean elaborated: “In light of increased unfounded asylum requests made by individuals from Trinidad and Tobago at our borders recently—the actions of a small faction necessitated this challenging decision.”
Browne discussed statistics indicating a notable rise in travelers-from-trinidad-and-tobago/” title=”UK Tightens Visa Rules: What It Means for Travelers from Trinidad and Tobago”>asylum claims originating from Caribbean nations—particularly alarming was an increase reported by the British Home Office showing applications soared from around 49 annually between 2015-2019 to as high as 348 this year alone; last year’s figures peaked at an astonishing 439 claims.
The minister announced his intentions to meet with Dean later that day “to formally express our objection” against imposing such restrictive measures. He conveyed disappointment regarding how swiftly these changes were enacted without ample consultation or dialogue between governments involved.
“The rationale outlined in official correspondence indicates concerns over rising unwarranted asylum applications,” said Browne. However, he firmly argued that punishing all citizens due to actions taken by select individuals lacks fairness or justification: ”We believe there are alternative approaches available which would allow us greater cooperation in tackling challenges faced by their immigration system.”
Further reinforcing his point about mutual interests between both countries serving each other’s needs effectively rather than imposing blanket restrictions hindering innocent travelers—Browne showed enthusiasm toward fostering collaboration with authorities across various sectors including intelligence sharing focused particularly on enhancing passenger data transparency.
“We recognize potential room for improvement within their own asylum application assessment protocols given how easy it currently seems for anyone across national boundaries seeking refuge there,” he concluded ultimately saying:
“While there may exist areas requiring rectification here too—there certainly appear substantial gaps present needing attention within Britain’s regulations enabling better organizational control.”
A Call For Dialogue Amidst Discontent
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