The US will require citizens from Malawi and Zambia to pay a $15,000 deposit for tourist or business visas, according to the State Department. This 12-month pilot program aims to reduce visa overstays and improve screening processes. Other countries may soon face similar deposit requirements, refundable after their visit. This initiative is part of President Trump’s efforts to combat illegal immigration, which began with an executive order on his second term’s first day. The State Department’s notice states that nationals from countries with high visa overstay rates may need to post a bond of up to $15,000 for visa issuance. In 2023, data showed that 14% of visitors from Malawi and 11% from Zambia overstay their visas. Other countries with high overstay rates include Haiti (31%), Myanmar (27%), and Yemen (20%). Since January, Trump has also ended humanitarian programs for certain migrants and restricted entry for nationals from 12 countries, with additional limitations on seven others.
His administration has canceled visas for numerous international students and has apprehended several others on college campuses throughout the United States, frequently without prior notice or options for appeals. The state department has indicated that it is focusing on individuals who engaged in activities that are deemed to be contrary to US national interests. A significant number of those affected have taken part in various pro-Palestinian activities. However, there have also been instances where the visa cancellations seem to be linked to individuals with some type of criminal history or legal violations, such as exceeding the speed limit, according to immigration attorneys.
