The United States has significantly expanded its controversial visa bond program, adding seven new countries to the list of nations whose citizens must pay a hefty security deposit to apply for entry. This move, a signature policy of the Donald Trump administration, makes obtaining a US visa prohibitively expensive for many.
Which Countries Are on the New List?
The US State Department quietly updated its rules last week, with the changes taking effect on January 1, 2026. According to the official notice on travel.state.gov, passport holders from the following seven nations must now post bonds ranging from $5,000 to a maximum of $15,000 when applying for a US visa:
- Bhutan
- Botswana
- Central African Republic
- Guinea
- Guinea-Bissau
- Namibia
- Turkmenistan
With this expansion, the total number of countries subjected to this financial requirement has risen to 13. Notably, 11 of these 13 nations are located in Africa, highlighting the policy's disproportionate impact on the continent.
Understanding the Visa Bond System and Its Impact
This bond system is a key part of the Trump administration's ongoing efforts to tighten US immigration and entry rules. Officials defend the policy, arguing it acts as a financial guarantee to ensure visitors comply with their visa terms and do not overstay. The bond amount is refunded if the visa application is denied or once the traveler leaves the US as required.
However, critics point out that the requirement places a massive financial burden on applicants. Paying the bond does not guarantee visa approval, adding a layer of risk. For many, the high cost simply puts the dream of visiting the US out of reach.
This policy expansion coincides with other stringent measures, including mandatory in-person interviews for most applicants and requirements to disclose years of social media history and extensive family travel details.
A Growing List of Affected Nations
The seven newly listed countries join six others that were added in phases during the previous year. The nations already on the list since August and October include:
- Mauritania
- Sao Tome and Principe
- Tanzania
- Gambia
- Malawi
- Zambia
The continuous expansion of this list signals a firm stance by the current US administration on immigration control. For potential travelers and students from these nations, careful financial planning and a clear understanding of the stringent application process have become more critical than ever. The policy is likely to continue shaping global travel patterns and diplomatic relations, particularly with African nations.
