WASHINGTON (AP) The Trump administration has recently expanded its restrictions on foreign nationals seeking entry into the United States by adding seven countries to a specific list. This updated list now requires passport holders from these nations to post visa bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 as part of their application process. This change intends to make obtaining a U.S. visa even more challenging and financially burdensome for many individuals.
As of January 1, 2023, the newly added countries include Bhutan, Botswana, the Central African Republic, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Namibia, and Turkmenistan. The total number of countries affected by this policy has now risen to thirteen, with the majority of them being located in Africa. Such measures are considered by critics to discourage legitimate travelers and could potentially disrupt international exchanges and relations.
Last week, the State Department implemented these modifications without much public announcement, which reflects an ongoing trend under the Trump administration to tighten entry requirements into the United States. This trend includes not only the bond requirement but also mandates that all visa applicants from countries needing visas must attend in-person interviews. Furthermore, applicants must disclose their social media histories spanning several years, along with comprehensive details about their previous travel experiences and living arrangements.
U.S. officials have justified the use of visa bonds, arguing that they serve as an effective tool to prevent citizens from targeted countries from overstaying their visas after entering the U.S. Although the payment of a bond is required, it does not ensure that a visa will be granted. However, if a visa application is denied, or upon a visa holder's compliance with the terms of their visa, the bond amount will be refunded.
The countries newly subjected to this bond requirement will join previously added nations such as Mauritania, Sao Tome and Principe, Tanzania, Gambia, Malawi, and Zambia. These countries were placed under the same restrictions in August and October of the previous year, indicating a broader strategy aimed at controlling immigration through financial deterrents.
Overall, these changes in the U.S. visa policy reflect a significant shift towards more stringent immigration protocols, which aim to create additional hurdles for a variety of international travelers. While the stated goal is to maintain national security and ensure compliance with visa regulations, critics argue that these measures can have adverse effects on legitimate travel and international cooperation.
