Mali has introduced new visa bond requirements for American travelers, mirroring the measures imposed by Washington on Malian citizens.
The move marks an escalation in tensions between the US and several African nations over what many view as discriminatory immigration policies.
The dispute centers on a US visa bond program requiring applicants from certain countries to pay a refundable deposit of $5,000 to $15,000 before entering the US.
The US Department of State claims the measure is designed to curb visa overstays, particularly among nationals of countries with higher rates of noncompliance.
Mali’s government and other affected states have slammed the policy as unilateral, unjustified, and contrary to international cooperation principles.
Author's summary: Mali introduces reciprocal visa bond measures against the US.