The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia links the introduction of new visa issuance rules for Georgian citizens by the United States Department of State to a high rate of visa violations.

“Unfortunately, this is connected with a high level of violations of U.S. visa policy by Georgian citizens, as explained by the American side,” the ministry said, adding that if citizens comply with visa rules, “this will give Georgia the opportunity to continue working with the American side on this issue.”

By a decision on March 18, the U.S. State Department added 12 more countries whose citizens, when applying for B1/B2 visas — tourist and business — will be required to pay a mandatory financial deposit. Georgia is among them. Thus, the total number of countries subject to this restriction has reached 50.

For these 50 countries, including Georgia, obtaining a B1/B2 visa will be possible only upon payment of a “mandatory guarantee” in the amount of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000. This amount will be refunded to the applicant if visa conditions are observed.