The United States is introducing a new travel policy that could require Nigerians applying for visitor visas to pay a financial bond of up to $15,000 (£11,800).
The move, which takes effect for Nigeria on 21 January 2026, is aimed at countries with high rates of visa overstays and security concerns. Nigeria is one of 38 nations—24 of them in Africa—included in the updated list released by the US State Department.
How the bond works
The “visa bond” acts as a financial guarantee that the traveller will return home before their authorised stay expires. Under the new rules:
- Cost: Applicants may be asked to post a bond of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000.
- Assessment: The specific amount will be determined by a consular officer during the visa interview.
- Payment: Payments must be made via the US Treasury’s online platform, Pay.gov.
- No Guarantee: Posting a bond does not guarantee a visa will be issued.
Bonds will only be refunded once the US Department of Homeland Security confirms the traveller has departed the country on time.
Why is Nigeria being targeted?
Washington cited two primary reasons for the tightened restrictions:
- Security Risks: The US pointed to the operations of groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State in parts of Nigeria, which it says create “substantial screening and vetting difficulties.”
- Overstay Rates: Official figures show a 5.56% overstay rate for Nigerian business and tourist (B1/B2) visa holders, and a nearly 12% overstay rate for students and exchange visitors.
The bond requirement follows a partial travel suspension imposed on Nigeria in December 2025, which affected several visa categories including immigrant and student visas.
Travel Restrictions
Under the new rules, travellers who are required to post a bond must enter the US through specific “designated airports.” These include New York’s JFK, Boston Logan, and Washington Dulles.
Other African nations facing the 21 January deadline include Algeria, Angola, Benin, and Senegal. Several others, such as Malawi and Zambia, have already seen the rules come into effect.
A ‘discriminatory’ move?
The policy has already sparked debate in Nigeria, where many see the high costs as a significant barrier to legitimate travel.
Critics argue the bond—which can be more than double the average annual salary for some—is “discriminatory,” while US officials maintain it is a necessary tool to manage immigration risks and national security.
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