Three Pacific nations are significantly impacted by the expansion of the United States’ controversial visa bond scheme, which is aimed at curbing the issue of overstayers. Travellers from Fiji, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu will now be required to comply with the US visa bond requirements.
The new regulations, announced by the US Department of State, are part of a 12-month pilot program set to begin on January 21, 2024. This initiative introduces a stipulation where selected applicants for B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourism) visas may need to post bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on assessments made by US consular officers regarding the risk of overstaying.
This initiative expands the list of affected nations from 25 to 38, following the additional 13 countries announced recently. Typically, the standard bond is $10,000, but this amount can be higher, contingent on the individual’s visa interview circumstances. It is important to note that the payment of a bond does not ensure visa approval.
Applicants must comply with certain conditions to receive a full refund of the bond upon their departure from the United States. This includes using designated airports for entry and exit, specifically Boston Logan International, New York JFK, or Washington Dulles International. Failing to adhere to these conditions could lead to denied entry or problems with departure records.
Local officials and travel industry representatives in the Pacific region have expressed concerns about the repercussions this policy may have on families, businesses, and tourism. With the potential for ongoing changes to these entry requirements, Pacific travellers are advised to stay informed and prepared for further adjustments. This situation underscores the need for careful consideration of the implications for international travel and regional economies.
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