The United States will now require tourists and business travelers from Malawi and Zambia to pay up to $15,000 as a visa bond, effective August 20. The State Department says the refundable deposit aims to curb visa overstays, although payment does not guarantee visa approval.
The 12-month pilot program singles out these two African nations, despite neither having the highest overstay rates. The Trump administration continues to tighten immigration policies, including a separate $250 "visa integrity fee."
Critics say the measure unfairly targets poorer countries and burdens lawful travelers. Malawi's Human Rights Commission head, Habiba Osman, called the policy "inhumane."
The US will require bonds of up to $15,000 for certain tourist and business visas under a year-long pilot program set to begin in two weeks, aiming to curb visa overstays https://t.co/QYGw1yiSdf pic.twitter.com/FxatMgD6pi
— Reuters (@Reuters) August 6, 2025
A State Department spokesperson cited "elevated overstay rates" and operational concerns but did not explain why other nations with higher overstay figures were excluded.
This move follows recent U.S. travel bans on other African countries and suggests further restrictions could soon affect parts of West Africa. The visa bond policy adds to the Trump administration's broader efforts to enforce stricter immigration controls.
