For many African travellers, applying for a US visa has never been simple. Now, for some, it is about to become even more demanding.
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According to eTNW, a new update to US visa requirements means applicants from several African countries will need to pay a significant bond as part of the process, adding a new layer of cost and complexity to travel planning.
What the new visa bond means
From 2 April, travellers from countries including Mozambique, Lesotho, Mauritius, Seychelles, and Ethiopia may be required to pay a visa bond when applying for a B1 or B2 visa.
The bond amount will not be fixed. Instead, it will be determined during the visa interview, with possible amounts set at $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000.
This payment acts as a form of financial guarantee linked to the traveller’s compliance with visa conditions.
How the process works
Applicants who are instructed to pay the bond will need to complete a Department of Homeland Security form and follow an online payment process.
Importantly, this step is not automatic. Travellers will only be directed to submit the form after a consular officer decides that a bond is required.
Once instructed, applicants will receive a link to complete payment through an official online platform.
When the money is returned
While the amounts may seem steep, the bond is not a fee that is permanently lost.
The money is returned automatically under specific conditions. This includes when the visa holder leaves the United States within the authorised period, does not travel before the visa expires, or is denied entry at a port of entry.
A growing list of countries affected
This latest update is part of a broader expansion that has unfolded over several months.
In August 2025, Malawi and Zambia were added to the list. That was followed in January by Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Angola, Uganda, and Nigeria.
The inclusion of additional countries now signals a continued tightening of visa conditions affecting travellers from parts of Africa.
What this means for travellers
For those planning trips to the US, this change introduces a new financial consideration.
A bond of up to $15,000 is not a small amount, and for many travellers, it could influence whether a trip is feasible.
At the same time, the policy does not apply to every applicant. Decisions are made on a case-by-case basis during the visa process.
A shifting travel landscape
Visa rules are constantly evolving, and this latest move reflects a broader trend of stricter entry requirements in some destinations.
For African travellers, it is a reminder to stay informed and prepared when planning international trips, especially to countries where regulations can change quickly.
What to keep in mind
If you are considering applying for a US visa, the key is preparation.
Understand the requirements, budget for potential additional costs, and follow official guidance closely.
As policies continue to evolve, staying informed can make all the difference between a smooth application and an unexpected hurdle.
Source: eTNW
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