The United States Embassy in the Dominican Republic confirmed that, starting next September 2, most tourist visa applicants will have to attend a mandatory consular interview, as part of a new strategy to combat immigration fraud and irregular migration.
The measure was explained by “Michelle Angulo”, spokesperson for the diplomatic headquarters, during a visit to Santiago as part of a communication campaign in Cibao media. According to Angulo, many people have used the tourist visa to “stay illegally in the U.S.”, and this new provision seeks to close that gap.
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With the new regulations,
children under 14 years old and adults over 79 will no longer be exempt from an interview, breaking with a common practice. The
only exception will be for those who
renew their B1, B2 or B1/B2 visas within 12 months of their expiration, and for
diplomatic visas.
Social Profile Under Scrutiny
Angulo also revealed that
student visa applicants will have to allow access to their
social media profiles, as part of the evaluation process. This measure seeks to verify that the purpose of the trip is
consistent with what is stated in the application.
Firm brake on illegal migration
“Combating irregular migration is our number one priority in the region,” Angulo stated, highlighting that the US administration is working in a coordinated manner, from the Department of State to ICE and the Coast Guard.
Although the Dominican Republic is not among the countries sanctioned with
visa issuance suspensions, Angulo was emphatic: the message from the U.S. government is clear for the entire region.
Countries under sanction
The United States imposed immigration restrictions on citizens of
12 countries since June, including
Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, and Yemen, who will not be able to access any type of visa. Other countries, such as
Cuba, Venezuela, and Sierra Leone, face
partial limitations, including B, F, M, and J visas.
Cooperation with DR
Despite the tightening of the rules, the embassy reaffirmed the strategic relationship with the Dominican Republic. “Part of that alliance implies respect for immigration laws and cooperation on key issues such as health, security, and development,” Angulo pointed out, citing recent visits by the hospital ship USNS Comfort and Secretary of State
Marco Rubio as a sign of the bilateral strengthening.
