Mali has imposed visa bond requirements on U.S. citizens in a tit-for-tat response to Washington’s move demanding Malian nationals post bonds for business and tourist visas. The junta-led government condemned the U.S. measure as a breach of a 2005 bilateral agreement and vowed to apply the same financial barriers under the principle of reciprocity. Travelers must pay upfront through a U.S. Treasury portal and use designated airports, with funds refunded if they depart on time. The pilot program targets countries with high visa overstay rates. Critics warn the bonds could deter legitimate travel and harm tourism, escalating tensions between Mali and the United States.
