“Every Burundian who travels carries the hopes of their family and community. Respecting visa rules isn’t just personal it’s a national duty,” the Embassy stated in an official post on its social media platforms.

The statement includes a direct and serious message:

“Due to repeated violations, U.S. visas for Burundians are temporarily banned.”

Although the Embassy did not specify when visa services would resume, it urged all Burundians to take responsibility for upholding the nation’s image and warned that the behavior of one individual can close doors for many others.

This is not the first time the U.S. has imposed visa-related restrictions on Burundi.

In 2020, the U.S. suspended certain categories of visas mainly business and tourist visas for Burundians. That decision stemmed from Burundi’s refusal or delay in accepting deported nationals.

At the time, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a statement saying:

“The Government of Burundi has denied or unreasonably delayed accepting its nationals ordered removed from the United States, contrary to international obligations.”

While those sanctions were eventually eased, the current issue marks a renewed concern, this time focused on visa misuse, such as overstays or using visas for purposes other than what was authorized.

The Embassy is now calling on all Burundians planning to travel to the U.S. to carefully review and comply with visa terms. Ensuring proper conduct, it said, would help restore access to future opportunities.

“We must work together to protect opportunity for all. One person’s actions can jeopardize an entire nation’s future,” the Embassy emphasized.