US visa bond plan may affect Namibian travellers

The Ministry of International Relations and Trade has taken note of a decision by the United States to introduce a temporary visa bond pilot programme that could require certain foreign nationals, including Namibians, to post a bond of up to US$15 000 (about N$250 000) when applying for B-1/B-2 tourist and business visas.

In a statement issued on Friday, the ministry said the measure forms part of the US government’s immigration and border management policies and acknowledged Washington’s sovereign right to determine such requirements in line with its national laws and priorities.

However, the ministry cautioned that the programme could have implications for people-to-people exchanges between Namibia and the US, including travel for tourism, business and family visits.

“These exchanges have, over many years, contributed positively to the strong and friendly bilateral relations that exist between the Republic of Namibia and the United States of America,” the statement reads.

The ministry further assures Namibian citizens that it will engage the US government to seek clarity on the scope, duration and practical application of the pilot programme, including how it may affect Namibian travellers.

“The government of the Republic of Namibia remains committed to constructive and respectful engagement with the government of the United States on this matter, with a view to safeguarding the interests of Namibian citizens while preserving and strengthening the longstanding bilateral relationship between the two countries,” the statement says.

The ministry says it will keep the public informed as soon as more information becomes available.

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