The Commonwealth of Dominica has formally requested immediate diplomatic consultations with the United States government following the December 16, 2025 proclamation imposing partial entry restrictions on Dominican nationals. While acknowledging America’s sovereign right to implement national security measures, the Dominican government expressed profound concern about its inclusion in the travel restrictions given its extensive cooperation with U.S. authorities and substantial reforms to its Citizenship by Investment Program.
Throughout 2024-2025, Dominican officials maintained continuous engagement with multiple U.S. agencies through various channels including the Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and its Washington D.C. embassy. These collaborative efforts addressed all concerns raised by American officials regarding CBI operations, culminating in Dominica becoming the first Organization of Eastern Caribbean States member to enact comprehensive legislative reforms on October 14, 2025.
The groundbreaking reforms introduced stringent new requirements including enhanced residency provisions, rigorous name-change controls, strengthened due diligence protocols, improved financial transparency measures, and the creation of an independent regulatory authority to ensure compliance with international standards.
The Caribbean nation now seeks clarification regarding whether these implemented measures satisfy U.S. security requirements referenced in the proclamation. Dominican authorities have requested urgent dialogue before the restrictions take effect on January 1, 2026, consistent with the partnership spirit outlined in the proclamation itself.
Emphasizing its long-standing bilateral relationship with the United States, particularly regarding maritime security and regional stability cooperation, Dominica reiterated that threats to U.S. security equally concern the Caribbean region. The government remains committed to transparent collaboration and shared security objectives while seeking resolution through constructive diplomatic engagement that reflects mutual respect between both nations.