New US regulations requiring some travelers from 24 African countries to post bonds of $5,000–$15,000 take effect this month. Originally aimed at Malawi and Zambia, the measure was expanded amid concerns about visa overstays and broader immigration policy shifts. Bonds are determined at visa interviews, do not guarantee issuance, and are refundable only after lawful departure. The rule could hinder business travel, academic exchanges and startups with US ties—particularly those connected to Nigeria.
New US Visa Bond Rules Could Curb Travel From 24 African Nations
New US rules requiring some visitors from African countries to post bonds of between $5,000 and $15,000 are set to take effect this month and are expected to further reduce visa approvals and travel from the continent.
What The Rules Require
The policy, first floated last year with an initial focus on Malawi and Zambia, has been expanded to cover 24 African countries including Angola, Nigeria and Senegal. Under the new regime, consular officers will set bond amounts for individual applicants during visa interviews. Payment of a bond does not guarantee issuance of a visa; the bond is refundable only after the traveler departs the United States before the visa expires.
Rationale and Context
The Trump administration cited high visa overstay rates as the reason for introducing the bond requirement, describing it as part of a broader effort to strengthen immigration controls. Critics say the measure could act as an additional barrier for legitimate travelers, students, entrepreneurs and businesspeople.
Who Might Be Affected
Travelers from the 24 listed countries will be directly affected, with potentially disproportionate impacts on business travel and international exchanges. Nigerian companies and startups, many of which have ties to the US—such as incorporation in states like Delaware—could face renewed friction when founders, employees or partners need to travel to the United States for meetings, fundraising or partnerships.
Potential Consequences
Experts warn the bond requirement could deter short-term business trips, academic visits and tourism, especially among applicants who cannot afford large deposits. Because bonds are determined case-by-case at interviews and do not guarantee a visa, some applicants may choose not to apply at all, further reducing travel and cross-border collaboration.
Practical Tips For Applicants
- Prepare documentation: Bring clear evidence of ties to your home country and the purpose of travel to strengthen your visa application.
- Plan finances: Be prepared for the possibility of a bond request and confirm how refunds are processed after lawful departure.
- Seek guidance: Organizations and startups with frequent US travel may want to consult immigration counsel or consular guidance to understand implications for staff travel.
Note: The policy is set to take effect this month and will be applied at consular interviews. Applicants should consult the US embassy or consulate website for the latest instructions and country lists.
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