ST JOHN’S: The Antigua and Barbuda Government will introduce new visa system in the wake of the allegations of a smuggling ring involving Cuban and Syrian nationals.
Acting Chief Immigration Officer Annette Mark said the Immigration Department will launch the system but gave no date when it would happen.
“Persons will have to apply for a visa to come to Antigua and to facilitate this process, the Immigration Department will be launching the e-visa system on our website very shortly. Persons can get online, apply for their visas and the process can move much smoother and faster,” Mark said.
He said as of July 20, the department has stopped issuing visa waivers.
Earlier this week, the main Opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) staged a demonstration outside the Office of Prime Minister Gaston Browne calling for the removal of Attorney General Stedroy “Cutie” Benjamin over his handling of the alleged smuggling ring.
Benjamin had offered to step down as immigration minister while an independent probe is being carried out, but the UPP said it wanted him removed entirely claiming that he still had the potential to influence the outcome of any probe.
Media reports said that United States Homeland Security personnel are here assisting the local authorities to probe the claims.
Fourteen Syrians, who were detained late last month remain in custody and are suspected to be victims of smuggling ring.
They have since been declared persona non-grata and are awaiting an appearance before a panel, which will determine whether they should be granted refugee status.
