Several Caribbean nations, including Barbados, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, the Bahamas, and Mexico, are currently experiencing significant delays in U.S. visa processing, compounded by new travel restrictions set to take effect in 2025. U.S. consulates across the region are overwhelmed by soaring demand and insufficient staffing, resulting in extensive backlogs that are disrupting travel plans for tourists, business professionals, and students alike. In some cases, applicants are forced to wait nearly a year or longer just to secure an interview appointment, prompting many to alter or cancel their travel arrangements. In Mexico, first-time visitor visa applicants face wait times of up to 458 days due to the overwhelming demand and limited consular resources. Similarly, in Jamaica, the U.S. Embassy reports delays of six months or more for interview appointments, causing significant disruptions for both leisure and business travelers. The Dominican Republic is among the hardest hit, with wait times stretching to 11 months or longer, leaving those with urgent travel plans in a precarious position. While the Bahamas and Trinidad and Tobago experience comparatively moderate delays, applicants are still advised to plan well in advance, as interview slots remain scarce. Barbados, though faring slightly better with wait times averaging 36 days, also recommends early applications to account for potential additional checks. Across the Caribbean, the combination of high demand and limited consular staffing has created a challenging environment for U.S. visa applicants, underscoring the need for early planning and flexibility for those intending to travel to the United States in 2025.