In a major policy shift, the United States has officially rolled out the Visa Bond Pilot Program (VBPP) as of October 23, 2025, requiring certain applicants from six African countries to post a financial bond before receiving a U.S. visitor visa.
According to an announcement by Mission Mauritania, citizens or nationals from Mauritania, São Tomé and Príncipe, Tanzania, The Gambia, Malawi, and Zambia will now need to pay a refundable bond of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 to qualify for a B1/B2 visitor visa (for business or tourism). The initiative—jointly established by the U.S. Department of State, Department of the Treasury, and Department of Homeland Security—aims to ensure compliance with U.S. visa terms and reduce overstays.
Under this policy, consular officers will determine the exact bond amount during the visa interview, considering each applicant’s background, travel history, and risk of overstay. Eligible applicants must also complete Form I-352 (Immigration Bond) and make the payment through the U.S. Treasury’s online platform — pay.gov before their visa can be issued.
The VBPP requirement applies regardless of the applicant’s location or place of application, meaning even those applying from third countries will still be subject to the new bond mandate if they hold a passport from one of the six designated nations.
This move is seen as part of Washington’s broader effort to strengthen immigration compliance mechanisms while maintaining legitimate travel and business links. However, it also raises significant concern among travelers and officials in the affected countries, who fear the policy could discourage legitimate tourism and business travel.
As the program takes effect, embassies in the listed nations are expected to provide further guidance on payment procedures, refund conditions, and potential exemptions.
References: https://mr.usembassy.gov/visa-bond-pilot-program-vbpp/.