The United States government is set to introduce a new visa bond requirement that could see Nigerian applicants for B1/B2 (business and tourism) visas asked to deposit up to $15,000 as a financial guarantee before travel.

According to updated information published by the US Department of State, the visa bond policy applies to applicants from selected countries considered to pose higher immigration compliance risks. Nigeria is among 38 countries listed under the new framework, with the policy scheduled to take effect on January 21, 2026.

Under the directive, eligible Nigerian applicants may be required to post a bond of $5,000, $10,000 or $15,000, depending on the assessment made during their visa interview. US authorities clarified that payment of a bond does not guarantee visa approval, and fees paid without direct instruction from a consular officer will not be refunded.

How the Visa Bond Works

The visa bond serves as a financial assurance to encourage compliance with US immigration rules. Applicants required to post the bond must complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s Form I-352 and make payments through the US Treasury’s Pay.gov platform.

• Bond refunds will only be processed if the visa holder:
• Exits the United States before their authorised stay expires
• Does not travel before the visa validity lapses
• Is denied entry at a US port of entry

Visa holders subject to the bond requirement will also be restricted to entering the US through designated airports, including John F. Kennedy International Airport (New York), Boston Logan International Airport, and Washington Dulles International Airport.

Broader Travel Restrictions

The visa bond policy follows earlier partial travel restrictions imposed on Nigeria and several other countries in December 2025. US authorities cited concerns including visa overstay rates and security challenges in certain regions.

Nigeria’s overstay rate for B1/B2 visas was reported at 5.56 percent, while student and exchange visa categories recorded higher figures. These factors, according to US officials, informed Nigeria’s inclusion in the latest policy update.

What This Means for Nigerians

Immigration analysts say the new bond requirement could increase the financial burden on prospective travellers, particularly business owners, professionals, and investors seeking short-term access to the US.

While the policy does not apply to all applicants automatically, Nigerians planning travel to the United States in 2026 are advised to prepare for stricter screening and higher upfront costs.

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