UK Visa waiver: President urges Guyanese to be responsible travelers

The United Kingdom has introduced visa-free travel to the UK for up to six months starting from November 09, 2022. This decision was announced by UK High Commissioner to Guyana H.E. Jane Miller at a press conference on Tuesday and welcomed by President Dr. Irfaan Ali.

However, the President is urging Guyanese to be responsible to protect such a decision. “There is no differentiated treatment, but Guyanese must exercise responsibility and that is what is critical for me because you know it takes a long time to get to these decisions.

“All of us must take responsibility to ensure the system is never abused,” he said.

Pointing out that the decision was made after “hard work,” the President said the two countries will work towards strengthening its systems to ensure proper monitoring and “to ensure that there is no abuse of the system.”

Dr. Ali said the visa waiver allows for greater connectivity between the two countries, the expansion of trade and an increase in travel, all of which bodes well for Guyana. “I think these are critical elements to building stronger relationships,” adding that the Guyana Government is looking towards more UK financing for transformative projects, better financing terms and pursuing new technologies.

This decision comes after the announcement that UK’s flag carrier –British Airways –will commence twice-weekly flights between London and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) from March 2023. The Boeing 777 aircraft will be stopping in St Lucia.

The UK High Commissioner to Guyana said “this visa lift is a real sign of the confidence the UK has in the growth of our relationship.”

“We believe that this change will be transformative to our already strong relationship,” she added.

Ms. Miller emphasized that those who want a long-term stay in the UK, or want to work or study or settle in the UK, will still need a visa.