WASHINGTON —

The State Department is now charging up to a $15,000 bond to travelers from two countries in Africa who are eligible for a business or tourist visa to visit the United States.

A State Department spokesperson said starting Aug. 20, nationals of Malawi and Zambia who are otherwise found eligible for a business or tourist visa will be required to post a visa bond of up to $15,000 before the visa can be issued.

The program comes as President Donald Trump works to tighten requirements for visa applicants.

The State Department spokesperson also said the visa bond will be canceled and the money will be returned to the applicant if the visitor follows all requirements while in the United States.

The Trump administration said more countries may be included in the visa bond progr

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