Barbados Joins Jamaica, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, Bahamas, and Other Caribbean Countries in Facing Major Visa Delays and New Travel Bans to US in 2025: Everything You Need to Know

Published on November 9, 2025

Barbados, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, Bahamas, and other Caribbean countries face major US visa delays and new travel bans in 2025 due to consular limits and high demand. Visa delays have reached critical levels, with wait times extending to up to 458 days in Mexico and over 11 months in Dominican Republic, as consular services are overwhelmed by soaring demand and limited resources. These delays are compounded by new travel bans and restrictions, making it even more challenging for travellers to secure timely appointments or make travel plans. With consular limits in place and a surge in applications, these delays are set to affect a wide range of travellers—from business professionals to tourists—forcing many to adjust their schedules and reconsider their travel plans. This article explores the impact of these visa delays and bans, and how travellers can navigate these issues in 2025.

Mexico’s Visa Wait Times Soar

Travellers from Mexico seeking U.S. visas are facing extended delays, with average wait times for first‑time B1/B2 visitor visas reaching up to 458 days. This significant backlog is caused by increased demand and limited resources at U.S. consulates. The growing waiting period has made planning trips to the U.S. more challenging, particularly for those with set travel dates. Many applicants, including tourists and business travellers, are finding it difficult to secure timely interviews. This extended waiting time means that travellers must plan far ahead, potentially holding off on booking flights or accommodations until their visa is confirmed, adding stress and uncertainty to travel plans.

Jamaica’s Lengthy Wait Times

For Jamaican citizens looking to visit the U.S., waiting times for visa appointments have become a significant concern. The U.S. Embassy in Jamaica has acknowledged that it often takes up to six months or more for new appointments to become available. This delay has made it difficult for travellers with fixed schedules, such as business people and tourists, to plan their trips. The lengthy wait periods for interviews are forcing many applicants to adjust their travel timelines or risk missing out on desired travel dates. To avoid issues, it’s crucial to apply for a U.S. visa well in advance.

Dominican Republic: A Year-Long Wait for U.S. Visas

In the Dominican Republic, U.S. visa applicants are facing some of the longest delays, with wait times for interviews extending to 11 months or more. This extensive backlog is primarily due to high demand and limited appointment slots. As a result, travellers must apply far ahead of their planned travel dates to secure a spot. The long wait times can create significant disruption to travel plans, particularly for those with urgent or non-flexible schedules. Applicants are advised to plan well in advance and monitor embassy updates closely to secure their appointment in time.

Bahamas: Moderate Delays, Still Plan Ahead

In the Bahamas, visa appointment delays for U.S. travellers are more moderate compared to other Caribbean countries, but applicants are still urged to plan ahead. Although wait times are less extreme, appointments must be scheduled within 365 days of fee payment, meaning applicants have to act promptly. While the delays are not as severe as in larger consulates, the requirement for early application remains important, as demand for visas continues to grow. For anyone planning to travel from the Bahamas to the U.S., it’s wise to begin the application process early to avoid unnecessary delays.

Trinidad and Tobago: Efficiency with a Wait

In Trinidad and Tobago, U.S. visa applicants benefit from a relatively efficient process once the interview is complete, with passports typically returned within 7-10 business days. However, the waiting time for securing an interview slot can still be a challenge. The U.S. Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago does not always provide clear estimates of wait times, but applicants are advised to plan early to ensure they have enough time for processing. Although the embassy handles applications relatively efficiently, travellers should not expect immediate availability and must factor in the potential for delays when scheduling travel.

Barbados: Manageable Yet Still Challenging

The U.S. Consulate in Barbados offers relatively shorter wait times compared to larger consular posts, with B1/B2 visitor visa interview slots typically available within 36 days. However, while this is a more manageable timeframe, it still requires early preparation. Applicants should keep in mind that processing times and potential administrative reviews can further extend the wait. Despite the more predictable nature of the process in Barbados, travellers should plan ahead and remain flexible with their travel dates. It’s still essential to apply early to ensure smooth visa processing.

Other Caribbean Countries: Facing Visa Delays

Several other Caribbean nations are also experiencing delays in US visa processing, with wait times varying depending on the country and demand. While the wait times may not be as extreme as in Mexico or the Dominican Republic, many countries in the Caribbean still face significant backlogs. For instance, applicants from countries like Saint Lucia, Grenada, and Antigua and Barbuda often face delays due to high demand and limited appointment availability. In these countries, prospective travellers are advised to apply early and monitor embassy updates for any changes in the processing times. While some countries experience relatively shorter delays, such as around 60-90 days, others face longer wait periods, pushing applicants to plan their travel well in advance.

Mexico has joined Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, Bahamas, Barbados, and other Caribbean countries in facing major visa delay to the US in 2025, significantly disrupting immigration processes.

Conclusion

The Caribbean countries, including Barbados, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, Bahamas,, are all facing significant U.S. visa delays. These delays are primarily caused by a combination of high demand for visas, limited resources at U.S. consulates, and growing applicant backlogs. While some countries experience shorter wait times, others, like the Dominican Republic and Mexico, have wait periods extending to several months or even over a year. As a result, travellers from these Caribbean nations are facing challenges in planning their trips to the U.S. It is crucial for applicants to apply well in advance and be prepared for longer processing times, as visa delays continue to impact their ability to secure timely appointments and travel arrangements.