The Ministry of International Relations and Trade has acknowledged a new U.S. pilot programme requiring certain foreign nationals, including Namibians, to post a visa bond of about N$250,000 for tourist and business visas.

However, the ministry expressed concern over potential disruptions to vital people-to-people exchanges, such as tourism, business trips, and family visits, which have long strengthened bilateral ties.

The B-1 category for business activities such as meetings and conferences and the B-2 category for tourism and leisure are common U.S. non-immigrant visas for temporary travel, allowing holders to travel for both purposes.

In a statement, the Ministry of International Relations and Trade reaffirmed Namibia's respect for U.S. sovereignty in determining and implementing its immigration and border management measures.

The ministry assured citizens that it will engage diplomatically with the US government regarding the programme's scope, duration, modalities, and its potential impact on Namibians. 

Travellers are advised to monitor updates through official channels, as the ministry is committed to keeping the public informed.