Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre is urging Saint Lucians travelling abroad to respect the terms of their visas, warning that overstaying can have consequences not just for individuals but for the country as a whole.
Speaking at the February 16 pre-cabinet press briefing, Pierre reminded citizens that entry into another nation is not something to take lightly.
“Visiting somebody’s country is a privilege,” the Prime Minister said.
He cautioned travellers to adhere strictly to the time granted on their visas.
“If someone applies for a visa and they get six months, do not spend six months and a day. That can affect us in ways that we may not be able to understand.”
Pierre stressed that visa violations can harm the country’s reputation and potentially impact future travel arrangements for other Saint Lucians.
“When we overstay our visas and do things – go to other people’s countries and don’t follow the laws – it affects everybody,” Pierre said. “Do not overstay in people’s countries. No matter how attractive it is, do not overstay in people’s countries. When people give you the privilege to visit their countries, leave when the time is due.”
Pierre’s warning came on the same day that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reinforced a similar position regarding visa compliance.
Speaking at a Joint Press Availability in Budapest alongside Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Rubio emphasised that visas are not guaranteed.
“I’ve said this repeatedly. I don’t know why it’s so hard for some to comprehend it. No one is entitled to a visa,” Rubio said. “There is no constitutional right to a visa. A visa is permission to enter our country as a visitor.”
He added that the United States has revoked visas in numerous cases over the past year.
“Being a tourist, student or journalist, if you undertake activities against the national security and national interest of the United States, we will take away your visa,” Rubio stated.
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