By: Fatou Krubally
The Embassy of The Gambia in Washington D.C. has issued a public advisory to Gambian nationals living in the United States, urging them to be vigilant and comply with U.S. immigration laws following recent policy changes announced by the U.S. Department of State.
According to a statement from the Embassy, the U.S. government has informed foreign missions about heightened enforcement measures regarding illegal entry, overstays, and violations of immigration laws. The changes were announced by the Department of State’s Office of Foreign Missions on May 7, 2025.
The advisory highlights that the U.S. government has prioritized the prosecution of illegal entry and unauthorized presence in the country, as well as criminal offenses committed by foreign nationals. President Trump’s directive for the U.S. military to support border enforcement includes the creation of new national defence areas along the southern border, where illegal entry will be met with strict prosecution.
“Foreign nationals who enter legally but overstay their authorized period of stay, or who violate U.S. laws, risk arrest, heavy fines, lengthy incarceration, deportation, and potentially a permanent ban on future travel to the United States
The advisory further notes that those in the U.S. illegally should leave immediately, and that financial incentives for voluntary departure are available through the CBP Home App. Meanwhile, visa holders who break U.S. laws could face visa revocation and removal.
In addition, the U.S. government has imposed new visa restrictions on foreign government officials and others who facilitate illegal immigration. Several criminal cartels linked to human smuggling have also been designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations.
The Embassy of The Gambia has encouraged all Gambian citizens to respect U.S. immigration laws and to consult the Embassy for guidance on any concerns. “We urge all nationals to stay informed, avoid overstaying their visas, and seek assistance from the Embassy where necessary’’
