
America is preparing to slam its doors on millions of legitimate travellers with an unprecedented 'pay-to-enter' scheme that could see tourists forced to stump up $15,000 (£11,700) simply to set foot on US soil.
The controversial pilot programme, launching in September 2025, will require refundable bonds from business and tourist visa applicants from nations designated as 'high-risk' by the US State Department. This move has sparked outrage across the travel industry and human rights circles.