GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) — The Guyanese government on Wednesday warned nationals against attempting to enter the United States (US) illegally, saying that it has received an official diplomatic note from Washington advising of strict enforcement measures and legal consequences for individuals who attempt to enter or remain in the North American country.

The statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation comes one day after seven Guyanese nationals returned after being deported by the authorities in the United States.

The ministry said that the diplomatic note follows the reinstatement and expansion of several immigration enforcement policies by President Donald Trump.

“While the US continues to welcome legitimate and legal travellers, the secretary of state has explicitly outlined that the Government prioritises the prosecution of offenses for illegal entry and illegal presence in the United States, as well as criminal offences by foreign nationals.

“Guyanese nationals who enter the United States of America without proper documentation or who overstay their periods of authorised entry or fail to respect the terms of their admission will be subject to the full extent of US immigration law, including but not limited to: arrest, prosecution and imprisonment or heavy fines,” the ministry said.

It urged Guyanese citizens to pursue legal and authorised avenues for migration, employment, education, and travel to the United States.

“Nationals currently residing in the United States illegally are strongly advised to depart immediately,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said, adding it “strongly urges all Guyanese nationals to comply fully with the immigration laws and regulations of the United States of America”.

Trump has vowed to deport annually one million illegal migrants, accusing them of being involved in criminal activities.