Zambia has voiced sharp disapproval of a new United States visa rule requiring its citizens to post bonds of up to $15,000. The policy, unveiled on Tuesday, will also apply to Malawi and begins on August 20 as a one-year pilot project.
Washington says the measure is aimed at curbing visa overstays, a key focus of President Donald Trump’s tightening immigration agenda. Zambia’s Foreign Minister Mulambo Haimbe warned the move could damage trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two countries.
He described the requirement as an “unnecessary financial strain” on Zambians, particularly those travelling for business or tourism. The US State Department has said the bond will range between $5,000 and $15,000, set during the visa interview process.
Funds will be refunded if visitors leave before their visa expires, but forfeited if they overstay their permitted time. Haimbe said the measure runs counter to the “spirit of mutually beneficial relations” that Zambia seeks to maintain with the United States.
He stressed that the pilot programme risks eroding trust and goodwill between the two sovereign nations. The Zambian government has opened discussions with Washington in an effort to review or reverse the policy.
