Gambiaj.com – (WASHINGTON, D.C.) – The Gambia’s Embassy in Washington D.C. has issued an advisory urging Gambian citizens residing in or travelling to the United States to strictly comply with U.S. immigration policies.

In a statement dated August 20, 2025, the Embassy reminded Gambians that possession of a U.S. visa does not guarantee entry into the country. Citing information from the U.S. Embassy in Banjul, the advisory clarified that visas merely permit travelers to approach a U.S. port of entry and request admission. The final decision on entry and duration of stay rests with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers.

“The decision to stay in the United States is not your visa’s expiration date,” the Embassy stressed, noting that CBP officers determine the “Admit Until Date” upon arrival, which travelers can verify online at i94.cbp.dhs.gov.

The Embassy also highlighted the rigorous security screening process all travelers undergo before receiving visas, including checks against law enforcement and counterterrorism databases. “Visas are not issued until all security concerns are fully resolved,” the statement noted, emphasizing that the U.S. government prioritizes the protection of its citizens from potential threats.

Special attention was drawn to Gambian students in the United States, who were cautioned that non-compliance with academic obligations could jeopardize their immigration status. “If they drop out, skip classes, or leave their programmes of study without informing the school, their visas may be revoked, and they may lose eligibility for future United States visas,” the advisory warned.

The Embassy urged all Gambian students to strictly adhere to the terms of their visas and maintain their student status to avoid disruptions to their education.

Reiterating its call, the Embassy encouraged all Gambians in the United States to remain fully compliant with U.S. immigration regulations to prevent any legal or administrative complications.