US Visa Bond Does Not Apply to Guyanese Travelers, Confirms Ambassador
By HGP Nightly News |
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA – Amid growing speculation and public anxiety, United States Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot has confirmed that Guyanese nationals are not subject to the US$15,000 visa bond recently introduced under a new pilot program by the US government.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Ambassador Theriot reassured the public that the visa bond requirement does not apply to Guyana and emphasized that the country is not on the list of high overstay nations being targeted under the new policy.
“So currently, Guyana is not included on that list. It does not apply to Guyanese citizens applying for a visa,” she said. “Guyana’s overstay rate is not very high. In my opinion, it’s not problematic.”
Understanding the Visa Bond Pilot Program
The visa bond program, set to take effect on August 20, 2025, targets B1 (business) and B2 (tourism) visa applicants from countries with a high rate of visa overstays. Under the policy, applicants from those countries may be required to post a refundable US$15,000 bond, which is only returned if the individual complies with the terms of their visa stay.
Theriot was clear: Guyanese applicants will not be subject to this requirement, and there are currently no immediate plans to change that status.
“Obviously, anything could change,” she added, “but I would be very surprised.”
Reassurance for Guyanese Travelers
With the United States remaining one of the top travel destinations for Guyanese citizens—whether for family visits, business, or leisure—the announcement from the US Embassy is expected to bring significant relief.
Already facing visa application fees, interview wait times, and processing delays, many prospective travelers feared the rumored visa bond would add another financial and logistical burden.
Theriot’s clarification brings much-needed clarity: Guyanese travelers are not included in the policy, and their access to B1/B2 visas remains unchanged.
What This Means Going Forward
The US Embassy continues to monitor overstay data, but based on current records, Guyana remains in good standing.
“For now, the message is clear,” Theriot reiterated. “Guyana is not on the list, and there’s no need to panic.”
