Gambian passport holders applying for B1/B2 visitor visas will now be required to post a bond of up to $15,000, the U.S. Embassy in Banjul has announced.

The refundable bond is intended to ensure compliance with U.S. immigration laws.

It will be returned in full if visa holders abide by the terms of their stay, if the visa expires unused, or if entry is denied at the U.S. border.

“This measure is designed to encourage compliance with U.S. immigration laws,” the embassy said in a statement.

The policy, which takes effect on 11 October, is part of a broader U.S. visa bond programme targeting countries with high rates of overstaying. The Gambia is among several nations affected.

B1/B2 visas are typically issued for short-term business or tourism travel.