Fiji Airways is seeking clarifications from the U.S. Embassy on how the bond requirement for people travelling to the United States will affect Fijians.
According to the U.S State Department website, any citizen or national traveling on a passport issued by one of 38 countries, including Fiji, who is found otherwise eligible for a B1/B2 visa, must post a bond for US$5,000, US$10,000, or US$15,000.
The amount is determined at the time of the visa interview.
They say applicants must agree to the terms of the bond through the U.S. Treasury Department's online payment platform, Pay.gov.
They say not doing this might lead to a denied entry or a departure that is not properly recorded.
While responding to questions by fijivillage News, Fiji Airways says although this rule is primarily about visa issuance at U.S. consulates, it does have implications for airlines, including Fiji Airways.
They say the rule strengthens the criteria for the issue of B1 and B2 Visitor Visas commonly used by Fijians for leisure and business travel.
The airline says for those required to post a bond in advance of travel, entry and exit will be restricted to three specific U.S. gateway airports.
The designated ports of entry include Boston Logan International Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport.
Fiji Airways says none of these are currently operated by Fiji Airways.
They say potential impact for guests include upfront costs due to the bond requirement and longer visa processing times due to the enhanced checks required.
Fiji Airways says these factors will influence travel planning and could lead to reduced bookings for U.S. bound trips or cancellation of already booked travel.
Fiji Airways says they are concerned that this requirement may significantly affect the ability of Fiji nationals and nationals of other affected Pacific Island nations to travel to the United States and is actively seeking clarifications from the U.S. Embassy on how the rule will be applied.
They say at this stage, it remains unclear whether these restrictions will apply to all travellers or just to those whom the consular officers believe present a higher risk, whether any existing visa holders are affected, and how these restrictions may affect travel to U.S. states and territories outside the Continental United States.
They say it is also unclear how these restrictions may affect travel to U.S. states and territories outside the Continental United States.
Fiji Airways adds they continue to work closely with the Fiji Government to explore solutions and support for Fijian travellers.
