Starting August 20, 2025, nationals of Malawi and Zambia applying for B1 (Business) or B2 (Tourism) visas may be required to pay a refundable visa bond. This new requirement is designed to reduce visa overstays and strengthen U.S. immigration enforcement.
What Is a Visa Bond
A visa bond is a financial guarantee that certain travelers must provide to ensure compliance with U.S. visa rules. The bond is refundable if the traveler departs on time and meets all visa conditions.
Who Must Pay the Visa Bond
At this stage, the requirement applies only to citizens of Malawi and Zambia, based on recent U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) data showing increased overstay rates from these countries.
If you qualify for a B1 or B2 visa, a U.S. consular officer may require you to post a bond during your visa interview. The amount—either $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000—will be determined based on your individual case.
How to Pay the Visa Bond
If instructed to post a bond:
- The consular officer will give you official instructions.
- Payment will be made online through the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Pay.gov platform.
- You must complete Form I-352, which outlines the bond terms and conditions.
Important: Never pay upfront or through third-party websites. Unauthorized payments will not be refunded, even if your visa is denied.
Approved Ports of Entry
Travelers under this bond program must arrive and depart through one of these airports:
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Using another airport could lead to denial of entry or issues with bond refund processing.
How to Get Your Bond Refunded
You will receive your refund if:
- You leave the U.S. on or before the authorized date.
- You do not use the visa at all.
- You are refused entry at the port of entry and returned immediately.
When You Forfeit the Visa Bond
The DHS will withhold the bond if you:
- Overstay your authorized period.
- Remain in the U.S. without proper departure.
- Attempt to change status (e.g., apply for asylum or a green card) while on a B1/B2 visa.
Once forfeited, the bond will not be repaid.
Why This Matters
The policy reflects the U.S. government’s continued focus on reducing visa overstays. For travelers from Malawi and Zambia, this means additional financial and logistical considerations, especially with restricted airport usage and strict compliance rules.
If you plan to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business, be prepared for possible bond requirements—and always follow official instructions before making any payments.