The Government of Guyana said the country will receive a limited and vetted number of skilled, non-criminal migrants under a new cooperation framework with the United States, with the government retaining full authority over who is admitted and the United States covering the associated costs.
According to a statement from the Government of Guyana, the arrangement will be implemented through the International Organization for Migration’s Assisted Voluntary Return Programme and includes safeguards intended to protect Guyana’s national interests while ensuring that those participating are treated in accordance with applicable laws and international standards.
Participation will be voluntary, and only individuals who have selected Guyana as a temporary destination will be considered.
The Government of Guyana said it will retain full discretion to review and reject any individual proposed under the programme.
The United States will bear the costs associated with the relocation process, while the International Organization for Migration, or IOM, will handle operational implementation, including receiving, housing and supporting participants.
There will be no financial burden on Guyanese taxpayers under the arrangement, according to the government statement.
The framework also establishes safeguards governing the treatment and legal rights of participants. Those relocated will have access to legal representatives and family members, while individuals who may qualify for international protection will retain the right to seek it.
The IOM will support referrals in appropriate cases to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, working in coordination with Guyanese authorities.
Guyana will remain responsible for decisions concerning admission, legal stay, protection and removal in keeping with the country’s laws.
The arrangement does not provide for permanent resettlement in Guyana.
Individuals participating in the programme will remain temporarily in the country while their immigration status is determined. Depending on the outcome of that process, they may return to their country of origin or relocate elsewhere of their choosing.
The framework comes amid expanding cooperation between Georgetown and Washington across a range of areas, including security, trade, investment, energy and diplomacy.
The Government of Guyana said the arrangement reflects the country’s commitment to international cooperation and the protection of human rights while preserving Guyana’s sovereignty and ensuring that its national interests remain paramount.
Guyana will continue working with the IOM, UNHCR and relevant domestic stakeholders to ensure the framework is implemented in accordance with Guyanese law, the country’s international obligations and national development priorities.