U.S. Imposes Visa Restrictions on Two Haitian Transitional Presidential Council Members Over Gang Links

State Department cites interference with anti-gang operations and invokes immigration law to bar entry and revoke visas for officials and their immediate families.

By: Haitian Prime News|January 25, 2026|Washington, D.C.

The United States Department of State announced Saturday that it is imposing visa restrictions and revoking existing visas for two members of Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council (TPC), citing their alleged involvement in the operation and support of gangs and other criminal organizations in Haiti.

According to the State Department, the visa actions extend to the immediate family members of the two officials, including spouses and children. U.S. officials said the decision follows findings that the individuals interfered with the Government of Haiti’s efforts to counter armed groups designated by the United States as Foreign Terrorist Organizations.

The measures are being taken under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which authorizes the denial of entry to foreign nationals whose presence or activities could have potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences for the United States.

In a statement attributed to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Thomas “Tommy” Pigott, the State Department reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to Haiti’s stability and to continued cooperation with Haitian authorities to combat escalating gang violence. The statement emphasized that Haitians have endured prolonged insecurity, destruction, and political infighting, and underscored the need for accountability for actors who contribute to instability.

The announcement also signals that the U.S. administration intends to maintain pressure on political figures accused of enabling or benefiting from gang violence, noting that further actions remain possible should destabilizing conduct persist.

Haiti has faced worsening security conditions in recent years, with armed groups expanding control over key areas, disrupting daily life, and impeding governance. The Transitional Presidential Council was established as part of efforts to guide the country toward elections and restore constitutional order amid the ongoing crisis.

Sources

U.S. Department of State, Press Statement, January 25, 2026

Immigration and Nationality Act, Section 212(a)(3)(C)