The United States Embassy has announced a significant policy shift that will impact visa applicants from Ghana and other selected countries. Starting August 20, 2025, certain categories of applicants under the B1/B2 visa classification will be required to pay a mandatory visa bond ranging from $5,000 to $15,000.
### What Does This Mean for Ghana?
This new policy is aimed at addressing visa overstays and improving compliance. However, it has raised concerns among Ghanaians and immigration experts. The bond requirement could disproportionately affect individuals from developing countries, making it difficult for them to visit the US.
Potential Impact on Ghanaian Applicants:
– Financial Burden: Raising $5,000 to $15,000 upfront may be challenging for many Ghanaians, limiting their access to US travel.
– Increased Difficulty: The policy may discourage potential travelers, affecting business, education, and family relationships between the two countries.
– Diplomatic Tensions: The Ghanaian government may need to engage in diplomatic discussions with US authorities to seek clarification and possible adjustments to the policy.
### Who Will Be Affected?
The bond requirement will primarily target applicants considered “high-risk” for overstaying, typically first-time travelers with limited travel history or weak economic ties to their home country. Specific details on eligibility, payment methods, and refund processes will be available on the official US Embassy website.
### Reactions and Concerns
Immigration policy analysts have expressed concerns about the potential impact of this policy on Ghanaians. “This is not just a bond—it’s a barrier,” says Kwesi Aboagye, an immigration policy analyst in Accra. “For many Ghanaians, raising even $5,000 upfront is unthinkable. It turns the dream of visiting the US into an economic nightmare”.