‘Grateful’ Bounty Killer gets US visa back

'Dancehall General' Bounty Killer is basking in the US after having his US visa reinstated after 15 years.

In a heartfelt expression of appreciation, the dancehall stalwart expressed "gratitude" to his late mom Ms Ivey and his manager Paul 'Bankey' Giscombe for never giving up on him.

"Fifteen years ago I lost my US visa and have been waiting to have it restored ever since. A few days ago I finally had it restored. First and foremost, I want to acknowledge and express my deepest gratitude to God, the source of all my blessings, I am forever grateful for his divine intervention," Bounty Killer said in a release that Giscombe shared with THE STAR.

"I also want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to my beloved mother, Ms Ivey. May she rest in peace. God bless you, Mama. To my dear friend, brother and manager, Paul Giscombe, 'Bankey' I want to express my deepest gratitude for your relentless pursuit to restore my visa. Bankey you never lost hope, even when we faced numerous rejections. Thank you, Bankey," a very thankful Bounty Killer expressed.

Bounty Killer, who has been faced with UK and US visa woes for more than a decade, was granted his UK visa in 2023 which marked his return to the 'glory land' following a 15-year haitus. Touching down on US soil yesterday, the Firm N' Strong deejay shared that he experienced a smooth entry into the country.

"God is the greatest all the times despite how it may seem like in March 2010 my visa was revoked for what reasons up until this day is unknown. Fast forward 15 years later today March 2025, I arrived in the States with no hassle. The greatest thing I never had to beg, bend or bow, I stayed true to myself vigilant and resilient," Bounty shared in a Instagram post moments after landing in the US.

Despite the uncertainty the deejay said he's still contending with, he expressed another wave of gratitude to his lawyer, family, friends, fans and the US Consulate General for "their unwavering support and assistance throughout the visa process".

"I am grateful for all efforts in resolving my issue. Thanks also to the staff members at the embassy who consistently greeted me with warm smiles and provided exceptional service," he said.

"Big thanks to my incredible lawyer, who put this final application together and made its success a reality despite the challenges we faced. Finally, I thank all my beloved family, friends and fans worldwide who have consistently supported me throughout this journey, you all have been a source of inspiration and I am forever grateful for your unwavering commitment to me and the music," the Bullet Proof Skin artiste added.

Other dancehall giants such as Beenie Man, Aidonia, Sizzla and Mavado also had their US visas revoked in 2010. The US Embassy did not state the reason for the revocations, but subsequently reissued visas for Aidonia and Mavado. Beenie Man' US visa was reinstated last year.