Providenciales, July 31, 2025 — The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) government has announced a six-month suspension on issuing first-time work permits and visas for Haitian nationals, citing escalating security concerns and a surge in immigration applications from Haiti. The decision, effective July 31, 2025, follows a cabinet meeting held on July 30.
Premier Charles Washington Misick said the temporary halt is aimed at safeguarding national security amid rising gang violence in Haiti and recent violent incidents within TCI.
“Given the violence in Haiti and the rising number of work permit applications, we are suspending first-time work permits and visas for Haitian nationals to protect our nation,” Misick stated.
The measure comes in the wake of two major violent events in Providenciales: a fatal shooting on July 21 that left two people dead, and a gang-related mass shooting on July 27 at the Island Hookah & Cigar Lounge, which killed three and injured ten. Authorities have linked elements of the violence to Haitian gang activity.
According to officials, the suspension period will be used to strengthen immigration vetting processes and design a quota-based work permit system. The government is also advancing its Safe City Technology Strategy, a public safety initiative that includes the installation of CCTV cameras and smart street lighting. The Ministry of Innovation, Technology, and Energy is working closely with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands
Police Force to implement the project.
Public reaction has been divided. Supporters say the suspension is necessary to curb crime and maintain public order, while critics warn it could harm the economy and disproportionately affect the Haitian community, which forms a significant part of TCI’s workforce.
One Haitian resident told local media, “We call this home and want to contribute to its safety.”
The policy comes against the backdrop of Haiti’s worsening crisis, marked by widespread gang control, political instability, and economic collapse. Located less than 200 miles from Haiti, TCI has seen an increase in migration flows despite international calls — in
cluding from the United Nations — to halt deportations.
The suspension does not affect current permit or visa holders, nor will it impact the renewal of existing documents.
