Amid growing concerns about the difficulties Liberians face in obtaining non-immigrant visas to visit the United States of America (USA), the US Ambassador accredited to Liberia has provided justifiable reasons and warned Liberians against overstaying beyond the expiration of their visa.
In an Op-Ed written by Ambassador Mark Toner on Monday, April 7, 2025, he explained that almost twenty percent of Liberians, who visit the United States on a tourist visa do not leave at the end of their trips.
The US envoy disclosed that Liberia has the tenth (10th) highest overstay rate in the world, and far too many Liberians resort to fraud in a desperate attempt to get a visa. “So, I thought it might be helpful if I explain clearly and simply U.S. immigration law and the legal and national security rationale behind the laws.”
According to him, to make America safe, strong, and prosperous, President Trump is ensuring that U.S. immigration laws are followed. He warns that anyone entering the US illegally, lying to obtain a visa, working without legal permission, or staying after the expiration of his/her visa or visa waiver period, such persons will face severe penalties.
These penalties, he said, would include jail time, deportation, and a permanent ban on obtaining a U.S. visa in the future. “If you have family or friends who are in the United States illegally, now is the time to tell them to come home. Trying to Enter or Remain Illegally Will Get You Caught,” he warned.
“Some people believe they can sneak into the United States and avoid being caught. This is not true. The Trump Administration has strengthened border security and greatly increased the number of illegal aliens being arrested and deported.”
The US diplomat recalled that in February 2025, illegal border crossings dropped by 94 percent compared to February 2024, while arrests of illegal border crossers inside the United States increased by 627 percent.
“If you try to cross a U.S. border or remain in the United States illegally, you will be caught, detained, and sent back. You may also be banned from returning or face fines and criminal charges.”
Amb. Toner pointed out that the U.S. visa process is the most secure in the world; yet, some people unwisely still try to cheat the system by using fake documents, lying on applications, or staying after their visa expires.
“These are examples of visa fraud, and it is a serious crime. If you break the law in this way, you will be punished, and you may never he allowed to enter the United States again.”
The United States Ambassador to Liberia further urged those considering making the dangerous journey to illegally cross into the United States to understand that their safety and even lives are at risk.
The US envoy indicated that the United States is working with other countries in the Western Hemisphere to stop and return people trying to enter illegally before they reach the U.S. southern border. “By securing our borders, we are not only protecting American citizens but also preventing the suffering caused by illegal immigration.”
He asserted that the US government is also taking action against those who help others to enter the country illegally. This, he noted, includes: smugglers, human traffickers, and even foreign government officials, who allow illegal immigration to continue.
“Recently, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a new visa restriction policy for foreign officials including immigration, customs, and port authority staff who fail to help stop illegal immigration. This builds on similar existing restrictions for those in the transportation and tourism industries. Those who threaten U.S. security by facilitating illegal immigration are not welcome in our country.”
Amb. Toner stated that the risks of trying to illegally immigrate to the United States far outweigh any potential benefits. “You could lose your life, become a victim of criminals, or end up with a record that damages your future and your family’s future. Illegal entry not only breaks U.S. laws, it also puts your safety and well-being in jeopardy. The penalties are serious, jail time, separation from your family, and permanent bans from re-entering the United States.”
“If you know someone who is in the United States illegally, the best thing you can do is encourage them to leave now before they are caught. For everyone, the message is simple: Make the right choice, follow the law, and do not risk your safety, your family, or your future.”
