The United States has imposed visa restrictions on Gambian nationals, a measure primarily targeting business (B1), tourist (B2), and student (F1) visas. Sering Modou Njie, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Gambians Abroad, addressed this issue during the government's final press conference of 2025 on December 29, held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center. Minister Njie clarified that these restrictions stem from The Gambia's high visa overstay rates, which stand at 12.7% for B-1/B-2 visas and a significant 38.79% for F, M, and J category visas. This policy is part of a broader US initiative aimed at countries with substantial rates of visa overstays.

The specific restrictions include a mandatory visa bond ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 for Gambian nationals seeking these visa categories. Minister Njie emphasized that this bond is fully refundable, provided that individuals comply with their visa terms and depart the US on or before their authorized stay expires. He highlighted that the US has identified a considerable number of Gambians who have remained in the country beyond their permitted period, and these restrictions are designed to encourage their timely return.

In response to these measures, the Gambian government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has initiated diplomatic engagements with the US. Minister Njie stated that the government has been actively communicating with the US Embassy in The Gambia and has opened a dialogue. Furthermore, the Gambian Mission in Washington is also engaging directly with the US State Department. The central focus of these discussions is