Papua New Guinea seeks dialogue over new hefty US visa bond

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has called for further dialogue with the United States regarding its new visa bond policy. The policy requires ordinary business and tourism travelers to the US to pay a substantial US$20,000 visa bond. Marape acknowledged that Papua New Guineans were concerned about this new requirement, but stressed that it does not signify a breakdown in relations between the two countries.

He emphasized that the United States remains an important and long-standing friend and partner of Papua New Guinea, and respects its sovereignty in determining immigration and visa policies. Visa bonds are a standard policy used by the US State Department for travelers from certain third-world countries, including five Pacific Island nations.

The bond is refundable if the traveler leaves the country before their agreed travel time or if they claim asylum. The bond ranges from $10,000 to $25,000 for 60 nations, including Fiji, Vanuatu, Tuvalu, Tonga, and Papua New Guinea. Tonga has been under a more comprehensive travel ban since January, with very few exemptions. Marape noted that Papua New Guineans are increasingly traveling to the US for education, business, employment, sport, tourism, and professional development.

He expressed his desire to work with, not against, the United States on this matter, and to establish facts and address any concerns about Papua New Guineans overstaying their visas. He encouraged better compliance from citizens who respect the laws of their host countries.