KEY POINTS
- US visa bonds for Nigerians could reach $15,000.
- The policy affects B1/B2 business and tourist visas.
- Nigeria’s implementation date is January 21, 2026.
The United States has introduced new travel restrictions that could require Nigerians applying for B1/B2 visitor visas to post financial bonds of up to $15,000, tightening entry conditions for applicants from countries deemed high risk.
Details published on the US Department of State’s website show that the bond requirement, which does not guarantee visa issuance, applies to selected nationals who are otherwise eligible for business or tourist visas. Fees paid without the instruction of a consular officer will not be refunded, the State Department said.
African countries account for 24 of the 38 nations listed under the new policy, which was released on Tuesday. Nigeria is among those affected, with implementation scheduled for January 21, 2026.
US visa bonds for Nigerians explained
Visa bonds are financial guarantees required from applicants to ensure compliance with US immigration rules, including timely departure. Under the directive, Nigerians approved for B1/B2 visas may be required to post bonds of $5,000, $10,000 or $15,000, with the amount determined during the visa interview.
Applicants must submit the Department of Homeland Security’s Form I-352. Also agree to the bond terms through the US Treasury’s Pay.gov platform. The requirement applies regardless of where the visa application is lodged.
The State Department said bonds would be refunded only after the Department of Homeland Security confirms that the visa holder departed the US on or before the expiration of their authorised stay. Refunds may also apply if the applicant does not travel before the visa expires or is denied entry at a US port.
US visa bonds for Nigerians and others
The policy covers countries across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and the Pacific. In Africa, affected nations include Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Senegal, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. With implementation dates ranging from August 2025 to January 2026.
Visa holders subject to the bond must enter the US through designated airports, including John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, Boston Logan International Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport.
The bond requirement follows partial US travel restrictions imposed on Nigeria and 14 other mostly African countries on December 16. In Nigeria’s case, US authorities cited security concerns linked to extremist groups and elevated visa overstay rates. The overstay rate was put at 5.56 percent for B1/B2 visas and 11.90 percent for student and exchange visas. This prompting restrictions across several immigrant and non-immigrant categories.
