The United States has introduced a new visa bond requirement that could see Nigerians and citizens of other designated countries asked to post refundable bonds of up to $15,000 when applying for B1/B2 business and tourist visas.
The US Department of State, in a notice on its official website, said payment of the bond does not guarantee visa issuance and warned that fees paid without instructions from a consular officer would not be refunded.
Of the 38 countries listed under the new requirement, 24 are African nations, including Nigeria.
The policy takes effect for Nigerian applicants on January 21, 2026. Other countries affected include Angola, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, The Gambia, and Zimbabwe.
The directive stated that citizens of the listed countries who are eligible for a B1/B2 visa may be asked to post bonds of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, with the amount determined during the visa interview.
Also, applicants must also submit the Department of Homeland Security’s Form I‑352 and accept the bond terms through the Treasury Department’s online platform, Pay.gov.
“Visa holders who post bonds are required to enter the United States through designated airports, including Boston Logan International Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport, and Washington Dulles International Airport.
“Bonds will be refunded only if the visa holder departs the US on or before the authorised stay, does not travel before the visa expires, or is denied entry at a US port of entry.
The announcement follows partial US travel restrictions on Nigeria and 14 other countries introduced in mid-December 2025.
