The Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda is poised to implement a groundbreaking immigration amnesty initiative following parliamentary approval of legislative amendments. Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s administration has confirmed that Parliament will convene within the forthcoming fortnight to deliberate on substantial revisions to the Immigration and Passport Act of 2014.
Cabinet members will initially examine the proposed legal modifications before presenting them to the legislative body. This strategic overhaul aims to establish a robust juridical foundation for normalizing the status of specific undocumented immigrants who have maintained prolonged residence in the country. The program specifically targets individuals who entered through legal channels but have resided without regularized status for a minimum of four years.
The regularization window will remain open for ninety days, spanning from April 1 to June 30, 2026, during which qualifying persons may submit applications. Additionally, the legislation incorporates provisions addressing those who marginally missed citizenship eligibility due to brief interruptions in lawful residency.
Government spokespersons emphasize that the amnesty constitutes a meticulously regulated process rather than an indiscriminate pardon. Explicit exclusions apply to individuals deemed threats to national security or public safety, applicants furnishing fraudulent information, and those under active deportation orders or international arrest warrants.
The administration characterizes this measure as a structured endeavor to enhance compliance with immigration statutes while reinforcing national security protocols. Officials project that upon legislative endorsement, the regularization process will commence promptly, potentially affecting thousands of long-term residents seeking legal conformity.