Washington, Jan 07 (V7N)- Citizens of Bangladesh and 24 other countries will be required to deposit a bond of up to $15,000 before entering the United States, according to an announcement published on the US State Department website on Tuesday.

Besides Bangladesh, the list includes two other South Asian countries—Nepal and Bhutan—as well as several nations from Africa and Latin America.

The US State Department stated that passport holders from the listed countries may apply for entry into the United States under B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourist) visa categories. However, applicants deemed eligible will be required to deposit a bond ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the outcome of their visa interview.

The bond amount will be determined on a case-by-case basis by US consular officers during the interview process. The measure is aimed at ensuring compliance with visa conditions, including timely departure from the United States.

According to the State Department, the new policy will come into effect on January 21.

END/SMA/AJ