In a significant diplomatic move, Mali has announced that U.S. citizens will now be required to post a refundable visa bond of
up to $10,000 before being granted business or tourist visas. This decision, disclosed by Mali’s Ministry of Foreign
Affairs on Sunday, comes as a direct response to the Trump administration’s new visa policy targeting Malian
nationals.The U.S. policy, set to take effect on October 23, 2025, mandates that travelers from several African countries, including Mali, post bonds ranging from
$5,000 to $15,000 when applying for B-1/B-2 visas. The bond is refundable upon timely departure from the U.S. but is
forfeited if the traveler overstays their visa or applies for asylum .Mali’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement condemning the U.S. measure as “unilateral and
unjustified,” emphasizing that it undermines the 2005 long-term multiple-entry visa agreement between the two nations. The ministry affirmed Mali’s
commitment to fostering relations based on mutual respect and dialogue, noting that the country has always collaborated
with the United States in combating irregular immigration with respect for law and human dignity .In response, Mali has implemented a reciprocal visa bond
requirement for U.S. citizens, aligning with the U.S. policy to ensure fairness and uphold diplomatic reciprocity. This move reflects a broader pattern in West Africa,
where countries are responding to perceived U.S. visa policy double standards .The introduction of this visa
bond policy is expected to impact various sectors, including business, tourism, and international relations between Mali and
the United States. Observers are closely monitoring the situation to assess the long-term implications of this diplomatic standoff.
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