Guyanese in the U.S. illegally urged to return to Guyana

Last Updated on Wednesday, 11 June 2025, 21:26 by Writer

The Guyana government on Wednesday urged Guyanese living in the United States (U.S.) illegally to return to their homeland.

“Nationals currently residing in the United States illegally are strongly advised to depart immediately,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said in a statement.

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

The Ministry reiterated the need for Guyanese to comply fully with the immigration laws and regulations of the United States.

The advice to return to Guyana followed an official diplomatic note from the U.S. government advising of strict enforcement measures and legal consequences for individuals who attempt to enter or remain in the U.S. unlawfully.

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

The Guyana government said while the U.S. continues to welcome legitimate and legal travellers, the Secretary of State Marco Rubio 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 by foreign nationals.