The U.S. government has nearly tripled the list of countries whose citizens must post bonds of up to $15,000 to apply for a visa, officials announced on Tuesday. The updated list now includes 38 countries, most of them in Africa, along with several in Latin America and Asia.
The move makes the process of obtaining a U.S. visa financially prohibitive for many applicants, raising concerns about accessibility and fairness. The bond is intended to ensure that visa holders return to their home countries after temporary visits, but critics say the high amounts could exclude students, professionals, and families who cannot afford it.
The U.S. State Department has stated that the measure targets countries with high visa overstay rates, while civil society groups have called for a review, warning that it could hamper educational, business, and cultural exchanges with affected nations.
U.S. Expands Visa Bond Requirement to 38 Countries, Costs Up to $15,000
