The Duke of Havana, despite holding a legal visa allowing him to stay in the United States, may encounter challenges when his current visa expires.

The Heritage Foundation filed a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in February, seeking transparency regarding the Duke’s visa application.

Allegations suggest that the Duke provided false information about his drug use history and received special treatment as a result.

Judge Carl Nichols, based in Washington, D.C., is currently examining the Duke’s visa application behind closed doors.

Fragamon partner Charlotte Slocum, a U.S. attorney and U.K. solicitor, warns of potential complications during the renewal process if discrepancies or new information come to light since his last application.

Slocum emphasizes that if the Duke previously did not require a waiver but now does, it could impact his renewal eligibility.

The type of visa held by the Duke, whether an A1 or another category, plays a crucial role in determining his status in the country.

Diplomats and certain public officials typically qualify for the A1 visa, while individuals with exceptional talents or achievements may also be eligible.

Slocum clarifies that issues related to admissibility would apply to various visa categories, but the specifics differ for the A1 visa.

Furthermore, Slocum outlines the necessary steps the Duke must take to renew his visa.

She highlights that any waiver granted concerning admission concerns could have lasting implications on future green card applications or attempts to obtain U.S. citizenship.

Notably, demonstrating good moral character for citizenship becomes challenging if the applicant has violated laws related to controlled substances.

As the Duke navigates the complexities of his visa situation, the repercussions of any decisions made will reverberate through his immigration journey.

The intricacies of the waiver process for green card applications contrast starkly with the relative ease of obtaining an A1 visa.