The Foreign Ministry noted that Guyanese nationals who enter the United States without proper documentation or who overstay their periods of authorized entry or fail to respect the terms of their admission will be subject to the full extent of U.S. immigration law, including but not limited to arrest, prosecution, imprisonment or heavy fines. Photo: ICE/File

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs revealed today that it received an official diplomatic note from the Government of the United States advising of the strict enforcement measures and legal consequences for individuals who attempt to enter or remain in the United States unlawfully.

The Foreign Ministry said the Diplomatic note follows the reinstatement and expansion of several immigration policies by U.S President Donald Trump.

“While the U.S continues to welcome legitimate and legal travellers, the Secretary of State has explicitly outlined that the Government prioritizes the prosecution of offenses for illegal entry and illegal presence in the United States as well as criminal offences for foreign nationals,” the Foreign Ministry quoted the correspondence as saying.

The Foreign Ministry noted that Guyanese nationals who enter the United States without proper documentation  or who overstay their periods of authorized entry or fail to respect the terms of their admission will be subject to the full extent of U.S. immigration law, including but not limited to arrest, prosecution, imprisonment or heavy fines.

“Guyanese citizens are encouraged to pursue legal and authorized avenues for migration, immigration, employment, education and travel to the United States. Nationals currently, are strongly advised to depart immediately,” the Foreign Ministry warns.

The Ministry urged Guyanese to comply with all immigration laws and regulations of the United States.

Just last week, the US Embassy in Georgetown also warned that using a visa to travel for the primary purpose of giving birth in the United States, so that the child will have U.S. citizenship, is not permitted, and Consular officers will deny a visa application if they have reason to believe this is intent of the travel to the US.

In a statement on its Facebook page warning against “birth tourism”, the Embassy also said if someone already has a visa and travels to the United States for the primary purpose of giving birth, and use Medicaid or other U.S Government assistance to pay for their medical care, that person may not be eligible to renew their visa in the future.