BISHKEK – Speaker of the Zhogorku Kenesh (Parliament), Marlen Mamataliev, has asked US Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan Leslie Viguerie to facilitate a revision of the visa deposit amount required for Kyrgyz citizens to obtain US visas, Economist.kg reports.
The issue was raised on June 17 during a meeting between the Speaker of Parliament and the US diplomat. The parties discussed the current state and prospects of Kyrgyz-US relations, the development of interparliamentary cooperation, and the expansion of trade, economic, and investment cooperation.
According to Mamataliev, Kyrgyzstan is interested in further strengthening bilateral ties in all areas, placing particular emphasis on developing economic partnerships and humanitarian contacts.
US visa policy was a separate topic of discussion. The Speaker expressed concern about the new conditions for Kyrgyz citizens to obtain US visas and noted that additional financial requirements could complicate travel for Kyrgyz citizens. In this regard, he asked the US side to consider revising the visa deposit amount.
In turn, US Ambassador Leslie Viguerie noted that the current measures are necessary to prevent violations of immigration laws and ensure visa compliance.
As a reminder, starting January 21, 2026, Kyrgyz citizens applying for US B1/B2 tourist and business visas were included in the visa bond pilot program. Its introduction is part of the US government's efforts to reduce the number of violations of stay conditions and cases of overstays.
According to the new rules, in addition to the standard consular fee, some applicants may be required to pay an additional refundable visa deposit. The decision is made on a case-by-case basis after an interview, and the amount may be $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000. The deposit is refundable provided all visa requirements are met and the visa holder departs the country on time after completing their trip.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
June 18, 2026