St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew has moved to reassure citizens and residents that rigorous screening and security protocols are in place under the Federation's migration cooperation arrangement with the United States, ensuring that no individuals with criminal backgrounds are admitted. According to Antigua News Room, Dr. Drew addressed the issue during the July 16 edition of the Prime Minister's Round Table.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed that the agreement applies exclusively to nationals of Caribbean Community member states and grants St. Kitts and Nevis the authority to reject any proposed individual who fails to meet the country's security standards.
Dr. Drew confirmed that all individuals transferred to St. Kitts and Nevis underwent background, immigration, medical and security assessments prior to their arrival. "So these are not criminals. We have no reason to lock them up or anything like that," he said.
In May 2026, the Government confirmed that three CARICOM nationals had been transferred from the United States. The transfers were not linked to criminal convictions but stemmed from immigration violations committed in the United States. Relevant national security, immigration and law enforcement agencies were engaged throughout the process, and the United States provided biographical, medical and criminal background information on each individual before any transfer took place.
The bilateral arrangement preserves the sovereignty of St. Kitts and Nevis, as the Federation retains sole discretion to accept or reject any person proposed for transfer. The memorandum of understanding also explicitly excludes individuals convicted of violent or sexual offenses.
Dr. Drew added that should information subsequently emerge indicating that an individual falls outside the terms of the agreement, the Government would act decisively. "There will be measures taken to ensure that St. Kitts and Nevis is not exposed to any criminals," he stated.
The International Organization for Migration was also involved in the process, providing independent oversight and helping ensure that transfers were conducted in accordance with international law, humanitarian standards and the rights of the individuals concerned.
On the question of costs, the Prime Minister explained that associated expenses — covering housing, food, clothing, healthcare and other essential needs — are being assessed on a case-by-case basis. Critically, these costs are not being borne by the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis. "I can say broadly that one, it didn't cost St. Kitts and Nevis one cent, and two, we made sure that the basics were covered for these people," Dr. Drew said.
The Prime Minister maintained that the Government is balancing its international and regional responsibilities with its primary obligation to protect the security and national interests of St. Kitts and Nevis. He assured the public that the Government will continue to operate transparently and apply strict immigration, security and law enforcement procedures to every individual considered under the arrangement.
