US demands $15,000 entry bond from visitors from Malawi, Zambia, others

The United States has reintroduced a controversial visa policy that requires tourists and business travellers from Malawi, Zambia, and several other nations to pay a refundable bond of up to $15,000 before entering the country.

This decision is part of a revived Trump-era rule aimed at curbing visa overstays. The US. State Department said the bond will apply to certain applicants from countries with high overstay rates, including Malawi and Zambia, under the B-1 and B-2 visa categories.

The program is set to run on a trial basis for six months and will affect individuals whose travel documents raise concerns of potential overstay.

A spokesperson for the State Department said the bond “will be refunded once the traveller complies with the terms of their visa and leaves the United States on time.”

Critics argue that the policy is discriminatory and disproportionately targets African nations and poorer countries. “It’s a penalty on nationality and poverty,” said a U.S.-based immigration analyst.

The U.S. first introduced the bond requirement in 2020 under former President Donald Trump, but it was rarely enforced and eventually expired. The Biden administration had initially put the policy on hold but has now revived it with adjustments.

Officials said the bond amount — which ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 — will depend on the applicant’s travel history, ties to their home country, and perceived risk of overstaying.

Governments of the affected countries have expressed concern, with diplomatic talks reportedly underway to address the issue.

Travel experts warn that the policy may discourage tourism and business travel to the U.S. from countries already struggling with economic challenges.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has defended the move, stating it is part of a broader strategy to ensure “respect for U.S. immigration laws.”

So far, there has been no official response from the governments of Malawi and Zambia.

(Aljazeera)

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