United States Pauses Caribbean Immigrant Visas

On January 14, 2026 the U.S. Department of State announced a policy shift pausing immigrant visas effective January 21 for nationals of 75 countries, including eleven CARICOM states. The measure signals a doctrinal tightening toward migrants perceived as likely public-benefits users and reduces the historical emigration safety valve for Caribbean economies. Caribbean governments must now align education, modernize TVET, and accelerate enterprise reforms to absorb labour domestically.