How to Apply and Everything Else You Need to Know About the New U.S. Visa Bond Requirement

A new policy from the Donald Trump administration in America would now require visitors applying for a U.S. B1/B2 visa for business or tourism to post a visa bond of up to $15,000.

For context, visa bonds are financial guarantees required by the U.S. Department of State for certain foreign nationals from countries classified as high-risk. They apply to individuals applying for B1/B2 visas for business or tourism.

The government said it was introducing these bonds to deter visitors from overstaying visas designed for short-term business or tourism purposes. In August 2025, the policy first took effect. While it initially applied only to Malawi and Zambia nationals coming to the US, this week it has expanded to 38 countries, including 24 in Africa. Affected countries include: Nigeria, Venezuela, Turkmenistan, Vanuatu, Cuba, and more.

Travellers should note that, according to the U.S. Department of State, any fees paid without guidance from a consular officer are non-refundable and do not guarantee that a visa will be issued.

Because of this, you should only apply for a visa bond if a U.S. consular officer specifically instructs you to do so during your visa interview.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for an American visa bond:

Step 1: Complete your standard B1/B2 visa application (DS-160) and attend your interview. The consular officer will determine if a bond is required and set the amount at either $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000.

Step 2: Complete the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Form I-352, the official Immigration Bond form.

Step 3: Make the payment through the official U.S. Treasury platform at Pay.gov. You will receive a direct link to pay only after the consular officer instructs you.

Step 4: Once the bond is posted, the Treasury will confirm receipt to the State Department. The department will then approve your Form I-352 and continue processing your visa.

Note: You’ll only get your bond refunded if the Department of Homeland Security confirms your departure from the U.S. on or before your authorized stay ends, if you never travel before the visa expires, or if you’re denied entry at a U.S. port of entry.