The Government of Liberia has condemned opposition figures celebrating the suspension of US immigration visas, describing the action as hate, not politics. Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah told journalists at a news conference on Thursday, January 15, 2025, that the pause only applies to visas that lead to permanent residence (green card) in the United States, including family-based, employment-based, Diversity Visa, and other immigrant classifications. It does not constitute a ban on U.S. visas for Liberian citizens.
According to him, tourist, business, student, exchange, and other temporary visas continue to be processed, and existing visas remain valid. The Government of Liberia recognizes the potential impact on citizens seeking permanent residence, and it is engaging U.S. authorities through diplomatic channels to seek clarification on the scope and duration of the pause and to advocate for fair consideration of Liberian applicants.
He noted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that even interviews for immigrant visas will continue unhindered. Only the issuance of the immigrant visa is paused pending new guidelines to be issued by the United States government. Minister Piah emphasized that opposition leaders who were sanctioned for alleged criminal behaviors carried out during their time in government are trying to equate US domestic foreign policy with not favoring the Boakai-led administration. He noted that the Liberian and US governments are on par, and the recent decision has no negative impact on their relationship.
The Minister encourages the public to rely on official updates, adding that non-immigrant travel for tourism, study, and business remains open, and Liberians with valid visas may continue to travel lawfully.
