The United States has introduced stricter immigration controls by expanding its visa bond policy, requiring travellers from about 50 countries including Nigeria to deposit up to $15,000 before being granted entry.
The new measure, announced by the U.S. Department of State, is set to take effect on April 2, 2026. It will apply specifically to applicants seeking B1/B2 visas, which cover short-term travel for business and tourism.
How the policy works
Under the revised system, affected applicants will be required to pay a refundable bond ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. The deposit will only be returned if the traveller complies fully with visa conditions particularly leaving the U.S. before their authorized stay expires.
U.S. authorities say the policy is aimed at tackling visa overstays, a long-standing issue within the country’s immigration system.
Early results and expansion
Officials revealed that the programme has already delivered encouraging outcomes, with compliance rates reportedly reaching about 97 percent among participants—an improvement compared to previous overstay figures.
The latest update expands the policy to 50 countries, including several in Africa, which U.S. officials classify as higher-risk regions for visa overstays.
Concerns over affordability
Despite its intended benefits, the policy has drawn criticism from observers who argue that the high financial requirement could limit access to travel, especially for applicants from developing nations.
Critics warn that even though the bond is refundable, raising such a large sum upfront may discourage legitimate travellers and create inequality in global mobility.
US defends decision
In response, U.S. officials have defended the policy as both practical and cost-effective. They note that deporting a single undocumented migrant can cost more than $18,000, suggesting that the bond system could help reduce enforcement expenses and ease pressure on taxpayers.
With Nigeria now included among affected countries, its citizens seeking short-term U.S. visas will have to navigate this additional financial requirement, marking a significant shift in the application process.
