US Consulate On Visas, Bermudians Travel, More
[Updated] Visa-free travel for Bermudians to the United States – a travel privilege which is only extended to Bermuda and Canada – is “governed by current U.S. policy, rather than a bilateral agreement with Bermuda or the United Kingdom,” the U.S. Consulate noted, adding that “as circumstances evolve in Bermuda and countries around the world, U.S. policy decisions on visa requirements can be revised.”
A spokesperson said, “In response to recent questions from the public regarding Bermudians’ visa-free travel to the United States and what might impact that status, the U.S. Consulate offers the following statement.
“Decisions regarding visa requirements for foreign nationals seeking to travel to the United States are made by the U.S. government. Citizens of the British Overseas Territory of Bermuda traveling to the United States on valid, unexpired Bermudian passports generally do not require nonimmigrant visas as temporary visitors. This exemption does not apply to individuals with ineligibilities under the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act.
“Visa-free travel for Bermudians to the United States is governed by current U.S. policy, rather than a bilateral agreement with Bermuda or the United Kingdom. Currently, only nationals of Canada and Bermuda enjoy this visa-free travel privilege. As circumstances evolve in Bermuda and countries around the world, U.S. policy decisions on visa requirements can be revised.
“In addition, Bermudians traveling to the United States on UK passports may apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization [ESTA] or U.S. visa, as appropriate.
“Additional information about visa exemptions for Bermudians and ineligibilities is available on the U.S. Consulate’s website here.”
Update 1.05pm: A PLP spokesperson said, “The Progressive Labour Party recognises Bermuda’s longstanding and mutually beneficial relationship with the United States. The PLP Government will not pursue any course of action that jeopardises this vital relationship or Bermudians’ ability to travel to the United States.
“We are pleased that the statement confirmed that there is no change to the visa-free travel arrangements currently enjoyed by Bermudian passport holders. Nor has the United States confirmed that full membership of CARICOM will cause those arrangements to change. We also acknowledge the considerable effort the OBA has invested in sustaining public discussion based on speculation, ahead of the Government’s forthcoming White Paper. Questions arising from that discussion have understandably been put to the US Consulate General.
“Full membership is being explored on Bermuda’s terms, with appropriate protections for our borders, labour market and immigration system. Our interest in CARICOM is rooted in the new opportunities that trade and deeper regional cooperation could create for Bermuda. We will not be pressured into defending the status quo when viable solutions may exist to pressing challenges such as the cost of living, food security, access to goods and services, healthcare cooperation and economic resilience.
“Consultation remains ongoing. The Government’s forthcoming White Paper will provide Bermudians with the facts needed to assess the potential benefits, obligations and safeguards. Responsibility for Bermuda’s external affairs rests with the United Kingdom. The UK Government has been supportive and responsive as Bermuda explores opportunities that could deliver meaningful economic benefits for our people.
“We will continue to pursue every responsible opportunity to make life better and more affordable for the people of Bermuda.”
Update 4.27pm: A Government spokesperson said , “The Government welcomes and acknowledges the statement issued by the United States Consul General concerning visa-free travel for Bermudians. This unique privilege is highly valued and taken with the long-standing pre-clearance agreement speaks to the strong relationship between Bermuda and our nearest neighbour, the United States. The Government of Bermuda remains committed to that relationship and to ensuring that it endures.
“The Consulate has confirmed that Bermudians travelling on valid Bermudian passports generally continue to be admitted to the United States without a non-immigrant visa, subject to the usual eligibility requirements. There has been no change to those arrangements.
“The Government’s earlier reference to a ‘bilateral arrangement’ is more reflective of the wider diplomatic relationship between the Unites States and Bermuda, which as an Overseas Territory involves the UK Government’s responsibility for external affairs. The Government of Bermuda fully recognizes and respects the United States’ policy on visa requirements for foreign nationals seeking to travel to the United States.”
To Bermuda. Leave Caricom alone.