The United States has significantly strengthened its immigration controls, broadening a contentious visa bond policy requiring travellers from 50 countries, including Nigeria, to pay up to $15,000 before entry. The policy, announced by the U.S. State Department, kicks off on April 2, 2026, targeting B1/B2 business and tourism visa applicants.
Under the plan, applicants must make a refundable bond payment, returned only if they stick to visa conditions and depart the U.S. on schedule. The move reflects Washington’s aggressive efforts to curb visa overstays, a longstanding U.S. immigration enforcement concern. Officials claim the programme is working, with about 97% of bonded travellers complying with visa terms, a big jump from previous overstay numbers.
The expansion adds 12 new countries, bringing the total to 50, many in Africa, deemed “high-risk” for overstays. The bond – $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, depending on risk assessment – adds a financial hurdle to the visa process. While refundable, the upfront cost is steep, especially for applicants from developing countries, raising worries about economic bias in global travel.
U.S. authorities defend the measure as cost-effective, noting deporting an undocumented migrant costs over $18,000 per case, so the policy could save taxpayers millions. Nigeria’s inclusion puts its citizens in the tightened visa regime, highlighting a shift toward risk-based immigration control tied to nationality and compliance history. Critics say the policy might limit legitimate travel, worsen inequality, and strain diplomatic ties.
