Dhaka, January 8 – In a significant move, the United States has placed Bangladesh on its visa bond list, requiring travelers from the country to post substantial bonds for US entry. Foreign Affairs Advisor to interim leader Muhammad Yunus, Touhid Hossain, labeled the decision as ‘very unfortunate,’ expressing deep dismay over the development.
Local media outlets reported Hossain’s reaction following the US State Department’s announcement, which includes Bangladesh among 24 other nations facing heightened immigration scrutiny. Citizens from these countries, eligible for B1/B2 visas, must now deposit bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, determined at the visa interview stage.
Speaking to reporters in Dhaka, Hossain remarked, ‘This isn’t imposed solely on Bangladesh. We’re among countries with immigration-related issues. It’s not surprising to me, but certainly unfortunate. It pains us.’ His comments underscore the frustration within Bangladesh’s leadership amid ongoing political transitions post-Sheikh Hasina’s ouster.
The US measure aims to mitigate overstay risks, with the State Department mandating Form I-352 submission and payments via the official Pay.gov platform. Applicants receive direct links for compliance, and third-party sites are strictly prohibited. Importantly, posting a bond does not guarantee visa approval, and unauthorized payments are non-refundable.
The full list encompasses diverse nations like Algeria, Angola, Bhutan, Cuba, Nigeria, Nepal, and Zimbabwe, highlighting global concerns over visa compliance. For Bangladesh, where remittances and overseas employment are economic lifelines, this could deter travel and strain bilateral ties.
As Dhaka navigates its interim government phase, Hossain’s critique signals potential diplomatic pushback. The US action reflects broader immigration enforcement trends under evolving policies, urging affected countries to address root causes like documentation and return compliance.
Experts anticipate this could impact thousands of Bangladeshi applicants annually, prompting calls for improved bilateral dialogues to ease restrictions. The episode marks another chapter in US-Bangladesh relations tested by recent upheavals.