The inclusion of President Gustavo Petro to the Clinton List It raises the question about the collateral effects that this measure could have among Colombians.
(Read: Trump attacked Petro after his inclusion on the Clinton List: what did he say?).
One of the most frequent doubts is whether this situation puts trips to the United States and visa applications to that country at risk.
For Juan Francisco Navarrete, managing partner of the Navarrete Consultores firm, the inclusion of the Colombian head of state on this blacklist could have impacts for travelers, although he warns that not in any way. “automatic”.
(See: What is the so-called Clinton List, to which President Gustavo Petro was included?).
“The fact that a President of Colombia is sanctioned by OFAC does not mean that all Colombian citizens are automatically banned from traveling to the US.”clarifies the expert.
However, Greater risks may be generated for travelers, as there would be greater scrutiny when applying for a visa.greater customs control and possibly stricter decisions by US authorities given the bilateral tension.
“If the visa applicant has obvious links with the sanctioned person (for example businesses, contracts, economic dependence, associates) it may be reason for rejection or further investigation”Navarrete said.
A citizen who has participated in a financial transaction or contract that involves the sanctioned person or his circle may also be affected.
(Besides: Petro responds to Trump sanctions: ‘I have nothing to freeze in the US’).
For the expert, there is a potential adverse effect for travel, study or business plans to the US, but not an automatic general prohibition for all Colombians.
Finally, he adds that each case will be evaluated individually by US authorities and by the banks and entities involved.
PORTFOLIO
