TCI Gov’t Extends Moratorium on Visitor Visas for Haitians

#TurksandCaicos, July 17, 2023 – 

The public is hereby advised that due to the following triggers:

• An increasing number of irregular migrants attempting to enter the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) over the last year, illegally and clandestinely;
• Upsurge in violent crimes in Haiti;
• Upsurge in violent crimes in the TCI;
• The number of persons repatriated and deported to Haiti recently;
• Rise in communicable and infectious diseases in Haiti (cholera etc.);
• The hiring of illegal immigrants and persons not authorized to work in the TCI by unscrupulous employers;
• The noticeable propensity of persons arriving in the islands who are violating the terms of their visitor visa by overstaying and engaging in gainful occupation;

A decision was taken by the Government of the TCI to extend the moratorium on visitor visas starting 12^th July 2023 and for the next six (6) months. This decision will be enforced by the Visa and Immigration Department and is yet another means by which the government continues to protect the lawful population of the TCI.

The extension is a continuation of the moratorium implemented on 12^th January 2023 and as such, all applications received prior to 11^th January 2023 will be honoured and will be processed in the usual way. No new application will be accepted by the Customer Service Department during this period which ends on 12^th December 2023. The MIBS will continue to keep these triggers under constant review.

The Minister of Immigration and Border Services, Hon. Arlington Musgrove, said, “It is regrettable that this measure has to be extended. But it is necessary for the continued protection of our beautiful islands. My government will not waver in protecting the borders of the Turks & Caicos Islands and will do so at all costs.  The continuous review of this moratorium will ensure that once the risks are minimized and the above triggers are reduced, the position implemented can be reviewed. I thank my brave officers who continue to put service before self and ensure the protection of these beautiful by nature Turks & Caicos Islands.”

Persons with information about any immigration or customs offences are encouraged to report it. This can be done anonymously via Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-8477 or directly and anonymously to HIS, online at https://www.ice.gov/tipline, or by phone at 1-866-347-2423.