DOS Expands Visa Bond Requirements for Certain B-1/B-2 Travelers Starting in 2026

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has announced an expansion of its visa bond pilot program for certain visitors entering the United States on B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourism) visas. Beginning January 21, 2026, nationals of additional countries may be required to post a visa bond ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 as a condition of visa issuance.

This update follows a temporary final rule first introduced in 2025 and reflects ongoing efforts by U.S. authorities to ensure compliance with visitor visa terms.

Below is a practical overview of what this change means, who may be affected, and how the process works.

What Is a Visa Bond?

A visa bond is a financial guarantee required in certain cases to help ensure that a visitor complies with the terms of their stay in the United States, particularly departing on time.

Under this pilot program:

• The bond amount is determined by the consular officer at the visa interview
• Possible amounts include $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000
• The bond is posted using Form I-352 (Immigration Bond) through the U.S. government’s official payment system, Pay.gov

Importantly, a visa bond does not guarantee visa approval. It is only requested after a consular officer determines the applicant is otherwise eligible for a B-1/B-2 visa.

Countries Newly Subject to Visa Bond Requirements

Effective January 21, 2026

• Algeria
• Angola
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bangladesh
• Benin
• Burundi
• Cabo Verde
• Côte d’Ivoire
• Cuba
• Djibouti
• Dominica
• Fiji
• Gabon
• Kyrgyzstan
• Nepal
• Nigeria
• Senegal
• Tajikistan
• Togo
• Tonga
• Tuvalu
• Uganda
• Vanuatu
• Venezuela
• Zimbabwe

Effective January 1, 2026

• Bhutan
• Botswana
• Central African Republic
• Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Namibia
• Turkmenistan

Already in Effect (2025)

• The Gambia (Oct. 11, 2025)
• Mauritania (Oct. 23, 2025)
• São Tomé and Príncipe (Oct. 23, 2025)
• Tanzania (Oct. 23, 2025)
• Malawi (Aug. 20, 2025)
• Zambia (Aug. 20, 2025)

This requirement applies regardless of where the visa application is filed, as long as the traveler uses a passport from one of the listed countries.

How the Visa Bond Process Works

Applicants should be aware of several key points:

• Do not submit Form I-352 or pay a bond unless instructed by a consular officer
• Payments must be made only through Pay.gov
• The U.S. government does not take responsibility for payments made through third-party websites
• Fees paid without official instruction are not refundable

Designated Ports of Entry

As part of the bond conditions, travelers must enter and exit the U.S. through specific airports:

• Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
• Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Failure to use these designated ports may result in complications with entry records or bond compliance.

When Is the Bond Refunded?

The bond is automatically canceled and refunded if:

• DHS records a timely departure
• The traveler does not use the visa
• Admission is denied at the port of entry

If DHS determines that bond conditions were not met, such as overstaying or applying to change or adjust status, the case may be reviewed by USCIS to assess whether a bond breach occurred.

What Travelers Should Keep in Mind

Visa bond requirements add an additional procedural step for certain B-1/B-2 applicants. While many travelers will never be subject to this program, those from listed countries should plan ahead, understand the rules, and be prepared to follow instructions closely during the visa process.

At Zhang-Louie PLLC, our immigration team regularly monitors DOS and DHS policy updates and helps clients understand how new procedures may affect their travel or long-term plans. Staying informed, and getting clear guidance before applying, can help avoid delays or unexpected costs.