US-Mali visa row: US removes Mali from list requiring visa bonds
The United States has updated its visa bond policy, removing Mali from the list of countries whose citizens are required to post bonds for obtaining a U.S. visa.
The United States has updated its visa bond policy, removing Mali from the list of countries whose citizens are required to post bonds for obtaining a U.S. visa.
Previously, citizens of Mali and the United States were required to post bonds of up to $10,000 when applying for tourist or business visas to each other's countries. This requirement was introduced as part of a visa policy adjustment by the U.S., effective from Mon, Oct 23, 2025. Mali had reciprocated with a similar policy for U.S. citizens.
Current Visa Bond Policy for African Countries
The U.S. continues to enforce visa bond requirements for citizens from the following African countries, effective from the listed dates:
The United States has updated its visa bond policy, removing Mali from the list of countries whose citizens are required to post bonds for obtaining a U.S.
Mauritania (Mon, Oct 23, 2025) Sao Tome and Principe (Mon, Oct 23, 2025) Tanzania (Mon, Oct 23, 2025) The Gambia (Sat, Oct 11, 2025) Malawi (Wed, Aug 20, 2025) Zambia (Wed, Aug 20, 2025)
The U.S. has recently employed visa policies as a diplomatic tool, including the temporary suspension of visas for Zimbabwean citizens and halting visa processes in Burkina Faso due to non-compliance with deportation agreements. As of now, Mali has not altered its visa bond requirement for U.S. citizens.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
