The latest restriction will expand and replace the Nicaragua 3C policy on charter flights, issued last November.

This new measure is aimed at targeting owners, executives, and senior officials of transportation companies including charter flight, ground, and maritime that offer services designated for those aiming to illegally migrate to the US territory.

The US State Department said that people who entre the country illegally usually pay high fees while risking their lives and the lives of their families, only to be placed into removal proceedings under US immigration legislation.

“No one should profit from vulnerable migrants—not smugglers, private companies, public officials, or governments. We will continue engaging with governments and the private sector, both within and outside the region, to eliminate this exploitative practice,” the US State Department added.

It is pertinent to mention that the US authorities issued a record number of visas last year. As many as 10.4 million visas were issued by 230 US Embassies and Consulates worldwide in 2023, marking the highest figure since 2015.