From January 21, 2026, Nigerian travelers may need to pay US visa bonds of $5,000–$15,000. Refundable if you leave on time, the bond adds a major cost on top of visa fees and affects families, students, and business travelers.
Starting January 21, 2026, a new financial barrier blocks Nigerian travelers seeking US entry
The United States has announced that Nigerian nationals applying for tourist and business visas must now post bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 as a condition of entry. This requirement takes effect January 21, 2026.
What This Means
If you're approved for a US B1/B2 visa after January 21, a consular officer will determine during your interview whether you need to pay a bond, and how much. The amount ranges from $5,000 to $15,000—that's between ₦8.3 million and ₦24.9 million at current rates.
This money is separate from your visa fees and travel costs. It's held by the US government until you prove you've left the country on time.
How It Works
The bond functions as a security deposit. You pay it through the US Treasury's Pay.gov system after your visa interview. When you leave the United States before your authorized stay expires, the government refunds your money. If you overstay or violate your visa terms, you lose the bond.
You must also enter and exit the US through only three airports: Boston Logan, JFK New York, or Washington Dulles.
Why Nigeria?
The US cites two reasons: security concerns related to groups like Boko Haram operating in parts of Nigeria, and visa overstay rates. According to Department of Homeland Security data, 5.56% of Nigerian B1/B2 visa holders overstay their authorized period.
Not Just Nigeria
Twenty-four African countries are now subject to this requirement, including Ghana, Senegal, Angola, Benin, and Côte d'Ivoire. In total, 38 countries worldwide face the bond mandate.
The Immediate Impact
For many Nigerian families, this creates an impossible barrier. A family of four could face bonds totaling $60,000 (₦100 million) before even buying plane tickets. Students, small business owners, and middle-class travelers are effectively priced out of US tourism and business travel.
The requirement also means your money sits locked with the US government for months—from when you pay until 90-120 days after you return home.
What You Should Know
The bond doesn't guarantee approval. Paying it only happens after you're told you're eligible for a visa. Don't send money unless a consular officer explicitly instructs you to.
Not everyone will need to pay. The consular officer decides during your interview based on their assessment of your individual circumstances.
Strong applications matter more than ever. Demonstrating solid employment, property ownership in Nigeria, family ties, and a history of travel compliance could influence whether you're required to post a bond and how much.
What Happens Next
This policy follows broader travel restrictions imposed on Nigeria and 14 other countries just last week. Together, these measures represent the most significant tightening of US-Nigeria travel relations in years.
If you're planning US travel after January 21, prepare for significantly higher costs and more complex requirements. If you have urgent travel needs and flexibility, applying before the implementation date may help you avoid the bond requirement entirely.
Need help navigating these new requirements? Visatile specializes in visa applications for Nigerian travelers.
