The British government has clarified that the suspension of the visa exemption decision to enter the United Kingdom is not an indication of a diplomatic crisis or weak relations between the two countries, but it expressed its concern about Dominica’s “obtaining citizenship by investment” program, and therefore, I would like to assure Dominica nationals holders that an amendment has been made to the structure and management of the Dominica Program, and we will continue to implement additional procedures and measures to strengthen the program during the coming weeks and months.
To a similar extent to the European Union, the United Kingdom is in the process of developing its own Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) program. Anyone wishing to enter the United Kingdom without a travel visa will need to apply for an electronic travel authorization, which will be implemented later this year.
We appreciate that imposing visa requirements may cause inconvenience for many citizens of Dominica who visit the United Kingdom for holidays, family visits, or frequent travel. However, this does not prevent citizens of Dominica from traveling to or through the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom still welcomes citizens of Dominica.
Based on the British government’s desire not to hinder the efforts of Dominica passport holders residing in Dominica, it has established a program where applications are accepted online. It also established an office in Dominica so that applicants can provide biometric data (fingerprints) to complete the submission of their applications. As for citizens of Dominica who are not residents of the country, they can apply for entry visas through the United Kingdom consular offices closest to them.
