Nigeria has been listed among 50 countries whose citizens may be required to pay a refundable visa bond of up to $20,000 before obtaining certain United States visas.
The policy, which has now been made permanent by the US government, primarily affects applicants seeking B1/B2 business and tourist visas.
Under the programme, a US consular officer may direct eligible applicants to post a bond as a condition for visa issuance.
However, the requirement will not apply automatically to all applicants from the affected countries.
According to the US Department of State, the visa bond initiative was first introduced as a pilot programme in 2025 to strengthen compliance with immigration laws and reduce visa overstays.
The US government said data gathered during the pilot phase showed the scheme was effective in ensuring that visitors complied with the terms of their visas and departed the country before their authorised stay expired.
Travellers,
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