US Tightens Entry Rules Places Nigeria and 37 Other Nations Under Visa Bond Requirement

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The United States has announced a new visa bond policy affecting Nigerian citizens and nationals from 37 additional countries, targeting applicants for B1/B2 business and tourist visas. This measure, aimed at bolstering compliance, allows consular officers to demand bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 from individuals considered “high-risk.”

The directive, released shortly after partial travel restrictions were imposed on several nations including Nigeria, is intended to ensure visitors return home when their authorized stay ends. The U.S. Department of State clarified on Travel.State.Gov that paying the bond voluntarily does not improve visa approval chances and is non-refundable unless specific conditions are met.

Out of the 38 affected nations, 24 are African. Besides Nigeria, countries like Algeria, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Malawi, Namibia, Senegal, Tanzania, and Zambia are included. Implementation schedules vary per country, with Nigeria’s bond requirement taking effect on January 21, 2026. U.S. authorities cited persistent security concerns and the activity of extremist groups, such as Boko Haram and IS factions, as major factors in the decision.

The policy also considers visa overstays. Data show Nigeria had a 5.56% overstay rate for B1/B2 visitors and 11.90% for F, M, and J categories. Applicants under this directive must complete the Department of Homeland Security’s Form I-352 and pay the bond through Pay.gov. Entry is restricted to specific U.S. airports, including Boston Logan, New York JFK, and Washington Dulles.

Previous travel restrictions in December 2025 had already included Nigeria among 15 countries subject to partial suspensions. The new bond requirement underscores a broader trend of stricter entry controls and enhanced screening of travelers from countries with security or compliance concerns.