Antigua and Barbuda has introduced stricter entry requirements for travelers arriving from African countries as authorities heighten precautions against Ebola and other infectious diseases.
Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant announced the measures at the post-Cabinet briefing following the May 27 Cabinet meeting. The government has maintained and reiterated its policy of denying visa waivers to travelers departing from any African nation.
"As part of the government's precautionary measures, Cabinet reiterated its existing policy that no visa waivers will be granted to individuals travelling from any African country," Merchant said.
The restriction is based on a traveler's point of departure, not nationality. Anyone travelling from an African country must therefore obtain a visa before arrival, even if they would ordinarily qualify for visa-free entry. Visa applicants departing from African countries will also be required to provide a full 45-day travel history as part of the screening process.
Cabinet further announced that entry visas will be refused to individuals who have recently visited countries or regions experiencing Ebola outbreaks or other serious viral diseases.
"Cabinet further advised that individuals who have recently travelled to countries or regions affected by Ebola or other known serious viral outbreaks will be denied entry visas in the interest of safeguarding public health and national security," Merchant said.
The measures form part of a broader public health response coordinated by the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs. No suspected or confirmed Ebola cases have been reported in Antigua and Barbuda, but health officials say surveillance and preparedness measures have been strengthened across the board.
Authorities have increased monitoring at ports of entry, enhanced infection prevention procedures within healthcare facilities, and expanded coordination with regional and international health agencies. The ministry has also reinstalled infrared thermal cameras at V.C. Bird International Airport to strengthen passenger screening.
Additional health protocols were introduced following the arrival of new international flights from Nigeria on May 25, with closer collaboration established among airport, immigration, customs, and airline personnel.
Officials have described the measures as temporary and precautionary, emphasising that the current risk to Antigua and Barbuda remains low. Enhanced border controls, they say, are nonetheless necessary to reduce the potential for infectious diseases to enter the country through international travel.
Travelers affected by the policy are advised to confirm visa requirements before departure and to be prepared to provide details of their travel movements over the previous 45 days.
