Travelers from Malawi and Zambia will face new financial requirements for U.S. visitor visas starting in 2025, under a policy announced by the U.S. Department of State. Nationals of the two African countries applying for B1/B2 business or tourist visas will be required to post bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, marking the first such measure targeting specific foreign populations under current immigration rules.
The regulation, disclosed in an official document published Tuesday, will take effect on August 20, 2025. The policy targets applicants from nations with higher rates of visa overstays, as outlined in the Department of Homeland Security’s 2023 fiscal year report. While the document did not specify exact overstay figures for Malawi and Zambia, the decision reflects ongoing U.S. efforts to curb immigration violations through financial mechanisms.
Prospective visitors from these countries deemed eligible for visas must electronically submit Form I-352—a legally binding agreement to the bond terms—via the Treasury Department’s platform. The bond amount will be determined during visa interviews and applies uniformly to applicants worldwide, regardless of where they apply. “This requirement applies regardless of place of application,” the State Department emphasized.
The policy introduces a significant financial hurdle for travelers, as bonds must be secured before visa issuance. Funds could be forfeited if recipients violate visa conditions, such as overstaying their permitted period in the U.S. While the Biden administration has not publicly commented on the rationale, the move aligns with historical uses of visa bonds to deter noncompliance.
Notably, the announcement clarifies earlier reports suggesting Nigeria might face similar requirements. While Nigerian applicants were mentioned in prior discussions about visa bonds, the finalized policy currently applies exclusively to Malawi and Zambia. The distinction highlights the U.S. government’s reliance on recent overstay data to tailor visa restrictions.
Immigration analysts note that bond requirements could disproportionately affect lower-income applicants, potentially reducing legitimate travel from these nations. However, supporters argue such measures protect the integrity of visa programs. The policy’s long lead time—15 months before implementation—allows prospective travelers and embassies to prepare for the changes.
This development comes amid broader debates about U.S. immigration enforcement, balancing border security with global mobility. With over 40 million nonimmigrant admissions recorded in 2023, the Biden administration continues refining policies to address systemic challenges while minimizing disruptions to lawful travel.
