The United States is set to introduce a new visa bond requirement targeting travelers from countries with high rates of visa overstays, including Nigeria and six other African nations. Effective August 20, 2025, under a pilot program initiated during former President Donald Trump’s administration, applicants for tourist and business visas could face bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. The policy aims to curb unauthorized extensions of stays, with U.S. officials emphasizing that refunds will be issued to those complying with visa terms.
According to a Federal Register notice published Monday, consular officers will prioritize imposing bonds starting at $10,000. The policy applies to nationals from countries where visa overstay rates exceeded 10% in 2023 or where existing screening processes are deemed insufficient. Nations affected include Angola, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Liberia, Mauritania, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. The U.S. government estimates that overstays from these countries surpassed thresholds outlined in the Immigration and Nationality Act, prompting the stricter measures.
A U.S. State Department spokesperson clarified that bonds are designed as “a financial incentive for temporary visitors to depart promptly,” adding that funds would be reimbursed once travelers exit the U.S. within visa limits. Reuters reported the notice stating that the bond amounts reflect the cost of potential overstay enforcement, though critics argue the fees could disproportionately deter legitimate travelers from lower-income regions.
This move follows heightened U.S. scrutiny of immigration policies and comes just days after Washington imposed new import tariffs on Nigeria and other African nations, citing trade imbalances. While the tariff decision drew concerns over economic impacts, the visa bond proposal has sparked debates about equity and accessibility. Advocates for African travelers note that visa application fees and interview wait times—already hurdles for many—could compound with bonded financial commitments.
U.S. officials counter that the program aligns with broader efforts to streamline immigration compliance, pointing to similar measures historically used for specific visa categories. Data from the Department of Homeland Security indicates Nigeria alone accounted for over 5,400 suspected overstays in 2023, though this represents a fraction of the country’s total U.S. visitors. Analysts suggest the policy may face legal challenges or diplomatic pushback if deemed discriminatory.
The bond requirement remains provisional pending final approvals, with a public comment period open until October 2024. Observers note its implications for U.S.-Africa relations, particularly as the continent seeks expanded trade and educational exchanges. For now, travelers from targeted nations must weigh the financial risks of visa applications against aspirations to visit the U.S.—a calculus that could reshape migration patterns and bilateral ties in the coming years.
