Print
version
version
What happened? Maltese citizens may lose visa-free entry to the United States. American senators want to introduce a corresponding ban, referring to the risks that golden passport holders can pose to the country.
What now? Currently, Malta is one of 40 European countries whose citizens can travel to the United States without obtaining a visa if they plan to stay in the country for no more than 90 days.
Details. On March 3, 2022, representatives of the US Congress Burgess Owens and Steve Cohen proposed a bill that would abolish a country's right to a visa-free entry program to the United States if it offers an investment citizenship program. According to the published press release, Russians are among the most frequent beneficiaries of such programs.
Quote. "Congressmen Owens and Cohen are leading the defense of our security by introducing bipartisan legislation to curb the dangerous practices of some countries that submit their citizenship and passports. Criminals from all over the world abuse these so-called "golden passport" schemes, and this practice must be stopped," said Marshall Billingsley, former Assistant Secretary of State for Combating the Financing of Terrorism.
Context. Recall that recently, citizens of Vanuatu lost visa-free entry to the EU for a similar reason. However, if the ban for Malta is introduced, it will affect only current holders of immigration status. After all, a few days ago Malta suspended the issuance of residence permits and citizenship for investment to Russians and Belarusians.
Source: Schengen Visa Info
