Kyrgyz MFA warns citizens about tightened US immigration checks

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan has issued a public advisory to its citizens residing in or visiting the United States, warning them about the intensified activities of US federal immigration authorities conducting checks on the immigration status of foreign nationals in major cities.

The statement was released via AKIpress, citing the press service of the Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry.

According to the ministry, Kyrgyz diplomatic missions in the United States remain in close contact with American authorities and are monitoring possible incidents involving the detention of Kyrgyz citizens.

The statement emphasised that in cases where Kyrgyz nationals face detention or encounter difficulties with immigration officials, they will be provided with consular and legal assistance. This includes clarifications of their rights and help in securing legal counsel in line with US and international law.

The ministry urged Kyrgyz citizens to fully comply with US migration regulations and to avoid taking part in mass gatherings, demonstrations, or protests in order to prevent potential legal consequences.

The advisory also included several recommendations:

• Always carry valid identification documents and ensure that immigration and work authorisation papers are current.

• In any interaction with immigration authorities, remain calm, refrain from signing any documents without a clear translation and explanation of their content, and respond only to questions concerning personal identification.

• If detained, immediately request that the consular office of Kyrgyzstan be notified.

The Foreign Ministry reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the rights and interests of Kyrgyz citizens abroad amid the ongoing tightening of immigration enforcement measures in the United States.

By Tamilla Hasanova