Dhaka Seeks Exemption from New US Visa Bond Rule

Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday was speaking to reporters at the Foreign Ministry,

Bangladesh will step up diplomatic engagement with Washington to seek an exemption from the United States’ newly introduced visa bond requirement, Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain said on Wednesday, calling the measure unfortunate but not unexpected.

Speaking to reporters at the Foreign Ministry, Touhid said the decision has caused concern for Bangladesh, but stressed that it should be viewed within a broader global context. “It is certainly painful for us, but it is not abnormal,” he said, noting that the policy applies to several countries facing similar immigration-related challenges.

He explained that Bangladesh’s inclusion in the list does not appear to be an isolated or targeted move, as the US has cited concerns over irregular migration and the alleged misuse of social support systems. According to the adviser, such concerns have long shaped US immigration policies and are not new.

Touhid described irregular migration as a long-standing, policy-driven issue and reiterated the interim government’s firm stance against non-regular migration. From the outset, he said, the government has maintained that discouraging irregular routes is the only sustainable and humane solution to the problem.

Referring to recurring reports of migrants dying or being rescued while attempting dangerous crossings, particularly in the Mediterranean region, the foreign adviser expressed sympathy for the victims. At the same time, he emphasised that such journeys often involve violations of existing laws and expose migrants to severe risks, exploitation, and human trafficking.

Under the new US policy, nationals of 38 countries will be required to post a visa bond of up to US$15,000 when applying to enter the United States. The bond is intended as a financial guarantee to ensure compliance with visa conditions, including timely departure.

The visa bond requirement was first introduced for six countries in August last year and was later expanded to include seven more. Most recently, the list was further extended to cover an additional 25 countries, including Bangladesh.

According to information published on the US Department of State’s travel website, the bond requirement for the newly added countries—subject to a few exceptions—is set to take effect from January 21.

Bangladesh authorities say they will continue discussions with the US through diplomatic channels, highlighting the country’s efforts to curb irregular migration and seeking relief from a measure that could pose additional financial and procedural barriers for legitimate travellers.