US Consulate clarifies visa-free travel policy for Bermudians
Key Points(5)
- Consulate General in Bermuda has clarified that Bermudians can continue to travel to the United States without a nonimmigrant visa, but stressed that the privilege is based on current U.S.
- policy rather than a bilateral agreement with Bermuda or the United Kingdom.
- The clarification came in response to recent public questions about the status of visa-free travel for Bermudians and what could affect the arrangement.
- “Citizens of the British Overseas Territory of Bermuda traveling to the United States on valid, unexpired Bermudian passports generally do not require nonimmigrant visas as temporary visitors,” the U.S.
- The exemption does not apply to individuals who are otherwise ineligible under the U.S.
The U.S. Consulate General in Bermuda has clarified that Bermudians can continue to travel to the United States without a nonimmigrant visa, but stressed that the privilege is based on current U.S. policy rather than a bilateral agreement with Bermuda or the United Kingdom.
The clarification came in response to recent public questions about the status of visa-free travel for Bermudians and what could affect the arrangement.
“Citizens of the British Overseas Territory of Bermuda traveling to the United States on valid, unexpired Bermudian passports generally do not require nonimmigrant visas as temporary visitors,” the U.S. Consulate said.
The exemption does not apply to individuals who are otherwise ineligible under the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act.
The consulate emphasized that decisions regarding visa requirements for foreign nationals are made by the U.S. government.
“Visa-free travel for Bermudians to the United States is governed by current U.S. policy, rather than a bilateral agreement with Bermuda or the United Kingdom,” it said.
Currently, nationals of Bermuda and Canada are the only groups to enjoy this particular visa-free travel privilege, according to the consulate.
However, the consulate cautioned that the policy is subject to change.
“As circumstances evolve in Bermuda and countries around the world, U.S. policy decisions on visa requirements can be revised,” it said.
The statement also clarified that Bermudians traveling to the United States on UK passports may apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or a U.S. visa, as appropriate.
The Bermuda government subsequently welcomed the U.S. Consulate’s clarification and stressed that there has been no change to the current travel arrangements.
“The Consulate has confirmed that Bermudians travelling on valid Bermudian passports generally continue to be admitted to the United States without a non-immigrant visa, subject to the usual eligibility requirements. There has been no change to those arrangements,” a government spokesperson said.
The government also explained its earlier reference to a “bilateral arrangement,” saying the term was intended to reflect the broader diplomatic relationship between Bermuda and the United States.
As a British Overseas Territory, Bermuda’s external affairs are the responsibility of the UK government.
“The Government of Bermuda fully recognizes and respects the United States’ policy on visa requirements for foreign nationals seeking to travel to the United States,” the spokesperson said.
The government also highlighted the importance of the visa-free privilege and the longstanding U.S.-Bermuda pre-clearance agreement, saying both reflect the strong relationship between Bermuda and the United States.
“The Government of Bermuda remains committed to that relationship and to ensuring that it endures,” the spokesperson said.
The U.S. Consulate said additional information about visa exemptions and ineligibilities for Bermudians is available through its website.
