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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
Published on
December 31, 2025
Dominican Republic, joining Jamaica, Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Lucia, and Cuba, faces new U.S. travel changes as the old visa system is scrutinized, particularly due to concerns over CBI programs. These Caribbean nations are now subject to tighter regulations, with the U.S. focusing on security and the integrity of Citizenship by Investment (CBI) initiatives that allow foreign nationals to gain citizenship through financial contributions. While some countries like the Bahamas are unaffected due to the absence of a CBI program, others, such as the Dominican Republic and Jamaica, find themselves under heightened scrutiny to meet international standards. These changes mark a pivotal moment in U.S. travel policy, impacting not only the ease of travel but also the investment opportunities in these nations. As the U.S. continues to adjust its approach, citizens and travelers alike must stay informed about the shifting landscape of international travel. Here’s everything you need to know about the new travel restrictions and how they affect these countries.
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 AffectedImpactStatus of Existing VisasAll VisasNo restrictionsRemains validCBI ProgramUnder high scrutinyN/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 AffectedImpactStatus of Existing VisasAll VisasNo restrictionsRemains validCBI ProgramUnder observationN/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 AffectedImpactStatus of Existing VisasAll VisasNo restrictionsRemains validCBI ProgramNot applicableN/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 AffectedImpactStatus of Existing VisasImmigrant visasSuspendedRemains validB-1/B-2 (Tourist/Business)SuspendedRemains validF (Student)SuspendedRemains validM (Vocational)SuspendedRemains validJ (Exchange)SuspendedRemains validAll Other New ApplicationsTougher scrutiny or denialN/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 AffectedImpactStatus of Existing VisasImmigrant visasSuspendedRemains validB-1/B-2 (Tourist/Business)SuspendedRemains validF (Student)SuspendedRemains validM (Vocational)SuspendedRemains validJ (Exchange)SuspendedRemains validAll Other New ApplicationsTougher scrutiny or denialN/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 AffectedImpactStatus of Existing VisasAll VisasNo restrictionsRemains validCBI ProgramUnder scrutinyN/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 AffectedImpactStatus of Existing VisasGovernment Officials & FamilyRestrictedMay be deniedGeneral PublicNo restrictionsRemains valid
Dominican Republic, joining Jamaica, Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Lucia, and Cuba, faces new U.S. travel changes as the old visa system is scrutinized, particularly due to concerns over CBI programs.
Conclusion
Dominican Republic, along with Jamaica, the Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Lucia, and Cuba, is now facing significant changes to U.S. travel policies as the old visa system comes under scrutiny. The primary concern revolves around Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs, which have led to heightened security measures and stricter regulations. While some nations like the Bahamas remain unaffected due to their lack of a CBI program, others, such as the Dominican Republic and Jamaica, are under close observation to ensure their programs align with international standards. These changes reflect a broader shift in U.S. immigration policy, emphasizing the importance of thorough vetting and security checks. As these countries adapt to the new rules, it is crucial for both travelers and investors to stay informed about the evolving landscape of U.S. travel regulations to navigate the complexities of international travel and ensure continued access to opportunities.
