US imposes visa restrictions on Haitian gov’t official accused of supporting gangs

The United States on Monday said it has imposed visa restrictions on a Haitian government official accused of supporting gangs and other criminal networks undermining Haiti’s stability. The State Department did not identify the official.

In a statement, the department said the action was taken under INA 212(a)(3)(C), a provision that bars the entry of individuals whose presence or activities could have “potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences” for the United States. Any valid U.S. visas held by the individual will be revoked.

The move builds on a policy first announced in October 2022, which targets people — including family members — who provide financial or material support to Haiti’s gangs and criminal organizations.

Washington said it remains committed to backing Haiti’s push for stability and expects tangible steps toward free and fair elections. “The Haitian people have had enough with gang violence, destruction, and political infighting,” the statement said, adding that the Trump administration intends to promote accountability for those fueling instability in Haiti and across the region.