US Slams $15,000 Visa Bond for Nigerians, Others 

US Slams $15,000 Visa Bond for Nigerians, Others

The United States has introduced a new visa bond policy that requires Nigerians and citizens from several other countries to post a refundable bond of up to $15,000 for business and tourism visas.

Effective January 21, 2026, the policy targets non-immigrant B1 (Business) and B2 (Tourism) visa applicants from 38 countries deemed to have high visa overstay rates or vetting difficulties.

Under this directive, consular officers have the discretion to demand a bond in the amount of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, which must be paid through the U.S. Treasury’s online platform.

The bond serves as a financial guarantee that the traveler will comply with the terms of their stay and depart the United States on time.

The funds are refundable only if the visa holder departs by their authorized date, fails to travel before the visa expires, or is denied entry at a U.S. port.

Additionally, travelers who post these bonds are restricted to entering and exiting the U.S. through designated airports, such as Boston Logan, John F. Kennedy, or Washington Dulles.

This move is part of a broader effort by the U.S. administration to curb immigration overstays, with Nigeria specifically cited for having a significant percentage of travelers who remain in the country past their authorized period.