Introduction: Why This Update Matters
If you’re a foreign national planning to visit the United States on a B1/B2 visa, recent changes may directly affect your entry and your wallet. As of 2026, visa bond requirements have been reinstated and expanded under the authority of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of State (DOS).
Failure to comply may result in denied entry, forfeited bonds, or legal complications.
Here’s everything you need to know to stay compliant and informed.
What Is the Visa Bond Program?
The visa bond program stems from Section 221(g)(3) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and is implemented via a Temporary Final Rule (TFR). Its primary goal is to mitigate the risk of visa overstays, especially from countries with historically high noncompliance rates.
Who It Affects:
Foreign nationals applying for B1/B2 (business or tourism) visas from specific countries (see list below) may be required to post a visa bond ranging from $5,000 to $15,000.
Countries Subject to Visa Bond Requirements (2026)
As of January 2026, nationals from the following countries may be subject to U.S. visa bond requirements. Implementation dates are provided for each country:
| Country | Effective Date |
|---|---|
| Algeria | January 21, 2026 |
| Angola | January 21, 2026 |
| Antigua and Barbuda | January 21, 2026 |
| Bangladesh | January 21, 2026 |
| Benin | January 21, 2026 |
| Bhutan | January 1, 2026 |
| Botswana | January 1, 2026 |
| Burundi | January 21, 2026 |
| Cabo Verde | January 21, 2026 |
| Central African Republic | January 1, 2026 |
| Cote D’Ivoire | January 21, 2026 |
| Cuba | January 21, 2026 |
| Djibouti | January 21, 2026 |
| Dominica | January 21, 2026 |
| Fiji | January 21, 2026 |
| Gabon | January 21, 2026 |
| The Gambia | October 11, 2025 |
| Guinea | January 1, 2026 |
| Guinea-Bissau | January 1, 2026 |
| Kyrgyzstan | January 21, 2026 |
| Malawi | August 20, 2025 |
| Mauritania | October 23, 2025 |
| Namibia | January 1, 2026 |
| Nepal | January 21, 2026 |
| Nigeria | January 21, 2026 |
| Sao Tome and Principe | October 23, 2025 |
| Senegal | January 21, 2026 |
| Tajikistan | January 21, 2026 |
| Tanzania | October 23, 2025 |
| Togo | January 21, 2026 |
| Tonga | January 21, 2026 |
| Turkmenistan | January 1, 2026 |
| Tuvalu | January 21, 2026 |
| Uganda | January 21, 2026 |
| Vanuatu | January 21, 2026 |
| Venezuela | January 21, 2026 |
| Zambia | August 20, 2025 |
| Zimbabwe | January 21, 2026 |
You can confirm the latest updates on travel.state.gov .
How Much Is the Bond?
Depending on the applicant’s profile and consular discretion, visa bond amounts are set at $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000.
When & How to Pay:
- Only after a consular officer instructs you to do so.
- Paid via Pay.gov, the U.S. Treasury’s secure online platform.
- The required form is DHS Form I-352 (Immigration Bond).
Caution: Do not pay bond fees through third-party websites. The U.S. government will not refund unauthorized payments.
Entering & Exiting the U.S.? Do It Right.
To ensure bond compliance, visa holders must enter and exit the U.S. through designated airports:
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Any deviation from these ports could result in a denied entry or incomplete exit records, jeopardizing the return of your bond.
When Is the Bond Refunded?
The Department of Homeland Security will automatically cancel the bond and return the funds if:
- You leave the U.S. on time, as authorized on your I-94.
- You don’t use the visa before it expires.
- You’re denied entry upon arrival.
If you overstay or violate visa conditions, the case is referred to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for review. Common violations include:
- Overstaying your visa.
- Adjusting status to apply for asylum or green card.
- Failing to leave or report departure properly.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re from a visa bond country and plan to visit the U.S., plan ahead:
- Budget for the bond.
- Review Form I-352 and Pay.gov procedures.
- Consult a qualified immigration attorney before submitting your visa application or planning your travel.
This policy reflects the U.S. government’s renewed emphasis on visa compliance and accountability, especially among frequent overstay countries.
Final Thoughts: Stay Informed, Stay Compliant
Immigration policies can change fast. Missing a single requirement can result in significant financial and legal consequences.
If you’re a foreign investor, visa holder, or national from a listed country, now is the time to:
✔ Consult with an experienced immigration attorney
✔ Stay updated on DOS, DHS, and USCIS guidance
✔ Ensure full compliance with visa bond requirements to avoid entry denials or bond forfeiture
Recommendations for Travelers and Investors
- Bookmark the official USCIS Immigration Bond Page and travel.state.gov
- Avoid unofficial sites and third-party payment services
- Contact Ahluwalia Law Offices for personalized compliance strategy
