— Prime Minister Gaston Browne says tougher United States visa policies could produce an unintended benefit for Antigua and Barbuda by helping the country retain skilled citizens who might otherwise migrate.

Speaking on his weekly radio programme, Browne acknowledged the difficulties the restrictions could create but urged residents to remain patient as the United States reshapes its immigration policies.

“I always believe in being positive and in every disappointment, it’s a blessing,” Browne said. “There’ll be many blessings as a result of this new U.S. policy.”

He said one potential benefit would be “opportunities to keep our skills that we continue to lose to the U.S. and other developed countries.”

Antigua and Barbuda has struggled with the migration of trained professionals, Browne said, noting that many citizens leave shortly after completing their qualifications.

The prime minister’s comments came as he discussed a new U.S. visa bond that could require some applicants to pay between US$10,000 and US$20,000. Browne stressed that the bond would not apply to everyone and would be imposed based on the perceived risk that an applicant might overstay.

Despite identifying possible benefits, Browne said his administration would continue pressing Washington to reconsider the measures affecting Antigua and Barbuda.

He said he had written to U.S. President Donald Trump requesting a review and would continue advocating on behalf of citizens affected by the policy.

Browne suggested that the measures are part of a broader shift in U.S. immigration policy rather than a response to wrongdoing by his administration. He said Caribbean countries must recognize that Washington is tightening its immigration rules and prepare to adjust.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: PM Says US Visa Restrictions Could Help Antigua Retain Skilled Workers.