Papua New Guinea seeks dialogue over hefty US visa bond

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape is pursuing dialogue with the United States to address a new visa bond policy that requires a substantial US$20,000 for ordinary business and tourism travel. The policy has caused concern among Papua New Guineans, who are increasingly traveling to the US for various purposes including education, business, and sport.

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I want our people to understand that this is not a breakdown in relations between Papua New Guinea and the United States.

Marape stressed that the new policy does not signify a breakdown in relations between the two nations, highlighting the US as an important and longstanding friend and partner. He acknowledged the US's sovereign right to determine its immigration and visa policies. Visa bonds are a policy the US State Department uses for travelers from certain countries, including five Pacific Island nations, requiring a refundable sum that is forfeited if travelers overstay their visas or claim asylum.

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The United States is an important and longstanding friend and partner of Papua New Guinea, and we respect its sovereign right to determine its Immigration and Visa Policies.

With prices ranging from US$10,000 to US$25,000 across about 60 nations, Marape stated his intention to work with the US to resolve the issue. He wants to demonstrate that most Papua New Guineans are "genuine travelers" and suggested establishing facts to address concerns about visa overstays. The Prime Minister pledged to encourage better compliance from citizens who respect the laws of their host countries.

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Our intention is to work with, not against, the United States on this matter.