DOS Announces Visa Bond Requirements for certain countries

What Was Announced?

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has expanded the list of countries whose nationals may be required to post a visa bond as a condition of receiving certain U.S. visitor visas. The updated guidance, effective on a rolling basis beginning in late 2025 and continuing into January 2026, is part of a pilot program aimed at encouraging compliance with visa terms, particularly timely departure from the United States.

What Is a Visa Bond?

A visa bond is a financial guarantee posted by an applicant who is otherwise eligible for a visa, designed to ensure compliance with the terms of admission to the United States. If the individual complies with their visa conditions, the bond is cancelled and returned.

Visa bonds are authorized under INA §221(g)(3) and implemented through a Temporary Final Rule establishing a pilot program.

Who May Be Required to Post a Visa Bond?

Under the expanded guidance, nationals of designated countries applying for B-1/B-2 visitor visas may be required to post a bond in the amount of:

• $5,000

• $10,000

• $15,000

The bond amount is determined by the consular officer at the time of the visa interview and is case-specific. The requirement applies regardless of where the application is filed.

Importantly, not all applicants from these countries will be required to post a bond. The decision is discretionary and based on individual circumstances.

Countries Affected

DOS has identified nationals from a growing list of countries as subject to potential visa bond requirements, with implementation dates ranging from August 2025 through January 2026. Countries include, among others:

Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Angola, Bangladesh, Nepal, Uganda, Tanzania, Venezuela, and several others.

Applicants should consult the official DOS website for the most current and complete list of affected countries and effective dates.

Bond Payment Process

Applicants should note the following:

• A visa bond is required only if directed by a consular officer

• Applicants must submit Form I-352 (Immigration Bond)

• Payment is made only through the U.S. Treasury’s Pay.gov platform

• Applicants should not use third-party websites to post bonds

• Payment of a bond does not guarantee visa issuance

If a bond is paid without consular instruction, the funds will not be refunded.

Designated Ports of Entry

As a condition of the bond, visa holders who post a visa bond must enter and exit the United States through designated ports of entry, including:

• Boston (BOS)

• New York–JFK (JFK)

• Washington Dulles (IAD)

• Newark (EWR)

• Atlanta (ATL)

• Chicago O’Hare (ORD)

• Los Angeles (LAX)

• Toronto Pearson (YYZ)

• Montréal (YUL)

Failure to comply with these entry and exit requirements may result in entry denial or bond issues.

When Is the Bond Returned?

A visa bond is automatically cancelled and returned if:

• DHS records timely departure from the United States, or

• The visa holder never travels to the United States, or

• Admission is denied at the port of entry

Key Takeaway

The visa bond expansion is not a visa ban or suspension, but a compliance mechanism applied selectively to certain visitor visa applicants. Many applicants will not be affected, and visa eligibility remains case specific.

Williams Global Law continues to monitor implementation and advise clients on how these requirements may apply based on nationality, visa category, and travel plans. Individuals who may be impacted should seek tailored legal guidance before applying.

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