The United States government has introduced new travel restrictions that will affect Nigerians applying for B1/B2 visas, the most common category for business and tourism travel. Under the updated rules, applicants may be required to post visa bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 before being granted entry.

The US State Department released the updated list of affected countries on Tuesday, with Nigeria among 24 African nations included. The measures will take effect for Nigerian applicants on January 21, 2026.

What is a B1/B2 Visa?

The B1/B2 visa is a non-immigrant visa issued by the United States for short-term travel:

• B1 (Business Visa): For individuals attending business meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts.
• B2 (Tourism Visa): For leisure travel, visiting family, medical treatment, or other personal purposes.
  Most Nigerian travelers apply for the combined B1/B2 visa, which allows both business and tourism activities during their stay.

What is a Visa Bond?

A visa bond is a financial guarantee imposed on applicants from countries considered “high-risk” for overstaying visas. The bond is paid through the US Treasury’s online platform, Pay.gov, after a consular officer determines eligibility during the visa interview.

Key points:

• Bonds are set at $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, depending on the applicant’s profile.
• Payment of the bond does not guarantee visa issuance.
• Bonds are refundable only if the traveler departs the US within the authorized period, does not use the visa before it expires, or is denied entry at the port of arrival.
• Travelers must enter through designated airports such as Boston Logan, JFK in New York, and Washington Dulles in Virginia.

Why Nigeria Was Added to the List

The US cited several reasons for Nigeria’s inclusion:

• Security concerns: The presence of Boko Haram and Islamic State affiliates in parts of the country, which complicates screening and vetting.
• Visa overstay rates: Nigeria recorded a 5.56% overstay rate for B1/B2 visas and 11.90% for student and exchange visas (F, M, J categories).
• Travel suspensions: Nigeria was already placed under partial visa restrictions on January 1, 2026, covering immigrant and non-immigrant categories.

Implications for Nigerians

For Nigerians applying for B1/B2 visas, the new policy means:

• Higher upfront costs: Applicants may need to provide thousands of dollars as a refundable bond, in addition to regular visa fees.
• Stricter compliance: Failure to leave the US on time could result in forfeiture of the bond.
• Reduced accessibility: The financial requirement may discourage many applicants, particularly those traveling for tourism or family visits.
• Greater scrutiny: Consular officers will have more discretion in determining bond amounts and eligibility.

Wider Context

The policy is part of broader US efforts to curb visa overstays and strengthen border security. While critics argue that the bond system undermines international travel norms and disproportionately affects African countries, supporters say it is a necessary deterrent against abuse of visa privileges.

Conclusion

From January 21, Nigerians seeking to travel to the US on B1/B2 visas must prepare for additional financial obligations in the form of visa bonds. While refundable, these bonds add a significant layer of complexity and cost to the application process, underscoring the importance of strict compliance with US immigration rules.