US Department of State: Nigerian Travellers Must Post $20,000 Visa Bond

• The US Department of State has made permanent its visa bond programme, affecting 50 countries.
• Nigeria and 29 other African nations are among the countries whose nationals may be required to post a refundable bond of up to $20,000.
• Applicants must complete Form I-352 and make payments through the official Pay.gov platform after receiving direct instructions from a consular officer.
• Paying the bond does not guarantee visa approval, and applicants who make unauthorized payments will not receive refunds.

Paying the bond does not guarantee visa approval, and applicants who make payments without official instructions from a consular officer will not receive refunds.

The US Department of State has made permanent its visa bond programme, which now affects 50 countries, including Nigeria and 29 other African nations. The programme requires applicants seeking B1/B2 business and tourist visas to pay a refundable bond of up to $20,000 (specifically $10,000, $15,000, or $20,000) before issuance, if directed by a consular officer. This expansion is aimed at improving compliance with US immigration laws, as demonstrated by the success of the 2025 pilot scheme. The programme's effectiveness in enforcing compliance among bonded visa holders has been proven through sufficient data collected during the pilot phase.

The countries whose nationals may be required to post the visa bond are diverse, with a mix of African nations, including Algeria, Angola, Benin, and Nigeria. The implementation timeline varies by country, with some, like Bhutan and Botswana, starting as early as January 1, 2026, while others, such as Malawi and Zambia, have specific dates in August and October 2025. It's essential for travellers from these countries to be aware of the programme's requirements and deadlines.

Applicants who are directed to participate in the programme must complete Form I-352 and make payments through the official Pay.gov platform after receiving a direct payment link. The government warns against using unofficial websites, as it will not be responsible for payments made outside approved channels. Payments can be made by the applicant or a third party, including relatives, friends, or business associates, but the name of the person paying must match the obligor listed on Form I-352.

Paying the bond does not guarantee visa approval, and applicants who make payments without official instructions from a consular officer will not receive refunds. Travellers who adhere to visa conditions and leave the country within the approved period will have their bonds refunded. This programme is an additional measure to ensure compliance with US immigration laws and prevent visa overstayers.

Lawyers advising Nigerian clients on US visa applications should be aware that the $20,000 visa bond requirement may apply and instruct their clients to only make payments through the official Pay.gov platform after receiving direct instructions from a consular officer.

Source: Original reporting via US Department of State