Kyrgyzstan Urged to Reconsider U.S. Visa Policy

Kyrgyzstan’s Deputy Prime Minister, Edil Baysalov, has suggested reviewing the country’s visa-free arrangements with the United States following the introduction of a security deposit for Kyrgyz citizens, posting his remarks on social media platform X.

Baysalov argued that the new rules from the U.S. Department of State violate the principle of reciprocity. «Visa policy is a matter of mutual respect,» he wrote, emphasising that the measure could strain bilateral relations.

Some social media users expressed concern that Washington could respond by suspending visas for Kyrgyz citizens. Others suggested that improving diplomatic relations with the US should be a priority.

The new policy, effective January 21, requires citizens of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan applying for B1/B2 business and tourist visas to provide a deposit ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, with the exact amount set by a consular officer during the interview.

The deposit does not guarantee visa approval. It is returned if the application is denied or once all conditions of stay in the United States are fulfilled.