Starting January 21, many Nigerians applying for visitor or business visas to the United States may be required to pay a hefty financial bond of up to $15,000.
This new requirement is part of a broader pilot program by the U.S. government aimed at deterring travelers who overstay their authorised time in the country.
The policy targets citizens from 38 countries, the majority of which are in Africa, with Nigeria being one of the latest additions.
According to the U.S. State Department, the decision to include Nigeria stems from several factors, including an overstay rate of over 5% for B-1/B-2 business and tourist visas, and nearly 12% for student and exchange visas.
The U.S. government also cited security challenges, noting that the presence of groups like Boko Haram and the Islamic State in parts of the country creates “substantial screening and vetting difficulties.”
This new visa bond measure comes just after partial travel restrictions on several Nigerian visa categories, including for business, tourism, and study, went into effect on January 1.
Under the new rule, a consular officer will determine during the visa interview whether a bond is necessary and will set the amount at either $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000. It’s important to know that paying this bond does not guarantee visa approval.
If a visa is denied, or if a traveler fully complies with the terms of their visa, including departing on time, the bond will be refunded.
However, travelers who post a bond must also use one of three designated airports for entry and exit: Boston Logan, New York’s JFK, or Washington Dulles.
