The United States has removed Mali from its contentious Visa Bond Pilot Program list. This decision followed swift and reciprocal action by the Malian government to impose identical visa bond requirements on U.S. citizens.
The dispute began when the U.S. Department of State, on October 8, 2025, expanded its Visa Bond Pilot Program to include Malian citizens, among others. The program, intended to curb high visa overstay rates, was set to take effect for Malians on October 23, 2025. It required Malian nationals found eligible for B-1/B-2 (business or tourist) visas to post a financial bond of up to $\$15,000$ as a guarantee they would depart the U.S. on time.
In response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) of Mali issued a press release expressing its strong displeasure with the U.S.’s “unilateral decision.” The Ministry argued that the new requirement undermined the 2005 Long-Term Multiple-Entry Visa Agreement between the two countries. The MAECI stressed Mali’s history of cooperation with the U.S. on irregular migration while “always maintaining respect for human rights and dignity.”
Applying the principle of reciprocity, the Malian government immediately announced its decision to implement an identical visa program for U.S. citizens. This retaliatory measure imposed the same conditions and requirements—including a significant financial bond—on U.S. nationals seeking entry into Mali.
Faced with this direct and reciprocal diplomatic challenge, the United States opted to de-escalate the situation by removing Mali from the list of countries subject to the Visa Bond Pilot Program. While the U.S. had added Mali alongside Mauritania, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Tanzania (effective October 23, 2025), and after earlier additions like The Gambia, Malawi, and Zambia, Mali’s aggressive reciprocal action led to its exemption from the program.
The U.S. visa bond program is authorized under INA Section 221(g)(3) and the Temporary Final Rule (TFR). It was launched on August 20, 2025, and is set to continue until August 5, 2026.
The program specifically targets nationals of countries identified by the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) FY 2024 Overstay Report as having high visa overstay rates, inadequate vetting processes, or lenient citizenship programs.
Nationals of the seven listed countries who are otherwise eligible for a B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourism) visitor visa must post a bond of $\$5,000$, $\$10,000$, or $\$15,000$. The exact amount is determined by a consular officer during the visa interview.
Applicants must submit DHS Form I-352 (Immigration Bond) and agree to the terms via the U.S. Treasury’s Pay.gov platform, but only after explicit instruction from a consular officer. The bond is refunded in full if the visa holder complies with all visa and bond terms, departing on or before their authorized stay expires.
Breaches, such as overstaying or applying to adjust status (including asylum claims), are referred to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for review and may result in bond forfeiture. No interest is paid on the bond.
Visas issued under this pilot program are valid for three months, allow a single entry, and the stay may be limited to 30 days by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers upon entry.
Visa holders who post a bond must enter and exit the U.S. only through designated ports: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), or Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD).
Support NepYork – Your Nonprofit News Media for the Nepali Community
NepYork, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is the Showcase of Nepalis in New York, delivering timely local news and vital resources on immigration, housing, taxes, health, business, and more. Our mission is to safeguard community journalism, amplify the voices of Nepali immigrants in NYC, and foster understanding, solidarity, and empowerment.
By donating to NepYork, you help us enhance participation in democracy, improve access to essential resources, and share authentic stories that reflect the vibrant, diverse experiences of Nepali New Yorkers. Together, we can connect, inform, and empower our community. Every contribution ensures these voices are heard and valued.
Donate today to keep Nepali stories alive and thriving in New York!
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
