The United States has announced new visa measures affecting Malian citizens, including the introduction of a refundable deposit and additional fees, set to take effect from October 23, 2025.
According to the U.S. State Department, the standard application fee for nonimmigrant visas remains at $185, and the validity period for multiple entries will continue at 60 months.
However, the major change involves a visa bond system, established by federal decree on October 8, 2025. This system will require Malian applicants to pay a deposit ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, determined on a case-by-case basis during the consular interview.
“The deposit must be paid before the visa is issued and will be refunded if the holder complies with the authorized length of stay. Any overstay or violation of conditions may result in forfeiture of the deposit,” the State Department statement explained.
In addition to the deposit, a new Visa Integrity Fee (VIF) of $250 will apply to most nonimmigrant visas.
Effective October 1, 2025, the VIF is intended to support verification systems and ensure compliance with visa conditions, although its exact implementation may vary by consulate.
Under the new regulations, affected travelers will also be required to enter and exit the United States through designated airports in Boston (BOS), New York (JFK), or Washington Dulles (IAD).
The measures are part of a one-year pilot program, effective from August 20, 2025, to August 5, 2026, published in the Federal Register as part of a wider reform of U.S. nonimmigrant visa policy.
Officials say the new framework is designed to improve monitoring of temporary visitors, reduce overstays, and strengthen compliance with visa conditions. While the deposit and additional fees may create challenges for some applicants, the U.S. government maintains that they are essential for maintaining the integrity of the visa system.
The introduction of these measures has prompted concern among Malian travelers and civil society groups, who warn that the high deposit amounts could limit access for students, businesspeople, and family visitors seeking temporary entry to the United States.
The U.S. embassy in Bamako has urged all applicants to review the updated procedures on the official website and plan accordingly to ensure compliance with the new requirements.
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