Fiji’s Immigration Minister Viliame Naupoto has emphasized that the country has no jurisdiction over its citizens once they leave its borders. This statement comes in response to the United States’ recent policy change regarding immigrant visa processing, which affects applicants from 75 countries, including Fiji. This new policy commenced on the previous day.
Naupoto clarified that any immigration decisions made overseas fall solely under the sovereignty of the host nation. He explained, “When you exit the country, you go to another country, you are guided by the conditions of the permit that has allowed you to enter that country. When you violate the conditions of those permits, there is very little to nothing that we can do to influence the decision of your new country, your host country. You’ve broken the law, their law, and they’re exercising their own jurisdiction and their own sovereignty.”
He assured that, regardless of these circumstances, Fiji remains committed to welcoming its citizens back home. Notably, Fiji stands out as the only Pacific Island nation impacted by this extensive U.S. policy, which spans regions from Latin America and the Caribbean to South Asia, Africa, the Balkans, and the Middle East.
The Minister underscored the importance of adhering to visa and permit regulations while abroad and framed deportation as a routine enforcement measure rather than a rejection of individuals by Fiji. He emphasized that returning nationals will maintain connections with their families and reintegrate into society despite the tightening global immigration policies.
Additionally, under the new U.S. regulations, Fijian nationals applying for a B‑1 business or B‑2 visitor visa may be required to post a refundable financial bond ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the assessment by consular officials. This bond must be paid through the U.S. government’s official platform and is refundable if the applicant departs the U.S. on time or if their visa is denied. However, the bond does not ensure visa approval, and specific U.S. entry points may be mandated for use by applicants.
As global immigration rules continue to evolve, the situation emphasizes the necessity for Fijians abroad to understand the implications of these changes while retaining hope for reestablishing their lives back home.
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