Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has announced that his administration intends to pursue the lifting of visa restrictions imposed on nationals of the Dominican Republic, signalling a policy shift aimed at strengthening regional relations and ensuring reciprocal treatment within the Caribbean.
The Prime Minister made the announcement while addressing regional mobility and foreign policy issues, noting that visa requirements should not become barriers between neighbouring Caribbean states without clear justification. He indicated that the matter is being approached through diplomatic and administrative channels, with consultations expected to guide the next steps.
Skerrit emphasised that the move is grounded in principles of fairness and regional cooperation. He said the government is examining existing arrangements to determine how best to remove restrictions while maintaining border security and orderly migration. The Prime Minister noted that Caribbean integration depends on the free and respectful movement of people, particularly between states with long-standing social and economic ties.
While no timeline for the policy change was announced, officials confirmed that discussions are ongoing at both the national and regional levels. Any adjustment would involve coordination with immigration authorities and alignment with CARICOM commitments on movement and travel.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged concerns sometimes raised about migration management, stressing that reforms must balance openness with responsibility. He said Dominica remains committed to maintaining proper screening procedures, even as it works to ease restrictions that may no longer be necessary or proportionate.
The announcement has drawn attention given ongoing regional debates about visas, deportations, and entry requirements affecting Caribbean nationals across the hemisphere. Observers say Dominica’s position could influence wider discussions within CARICOM on reciprocal visa policies and treatment of regional citizens. Government officials are expected to provide further details once internal reviews and diplomatic engagements are completed.
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