A new US permanent visa bond program took effect on August 3, 2026, requiring applicants from 50 countries—including 30 African nations—to post security deposits of up to $20,000 for B-1 business and B-2 tourist visas. The scheme expands a 2025 pilot program, eliminating the lowest $5,000 tier while adding a new $20,000 maximum alongside existing $10,000 and $15,000 levels.

Officials from the State Department defend the measure as necessary to reduce visa overstays, citing pilot phase results showing improved compliance with immigration rules. However, critics warn the high deposits could place US travel beyond reach for many legitimate visitors from lower-income African countries like Uganda, Ethiopia, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. Tourism advocates further caution that the policy may deter international travel and harm US businesses dependent on foreign tourists. The discretionary nature of the bond requirement, applied case-by-case by consular officers, adds uncertainty for applicants.