Story perspectives

Trump Administration Mandates Visa Bonds for 7 African Nations

10/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Trump administration expands visa bonds, requiring B1/B2 nonimmigrant applicants from seven African countries to post $5,000–$15,000.
The affected countries are Mali, Mauritania, Sao Tome and Principe, Tanzania, The Gambia, Malawi, and Zambia.
Some countries have had the policy since August, with dates varying.
Bonds are refundable when terms are met, with violations reviewed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The pilot program runs through August 5, 2026.

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Story summary

The Trump administration expands visa bonds, requiring B1/B2 nonimmigrant applicants from seven African countries to post $5,000–$15,000.
The affected countries are Mali, Mauritania, Sao Tome and Principe, Tanzania, The Gambia, Malawi, and Zambia.
Some countries have had the policy since August, with dates varying.
Bonds are refundable when terms are met, with violations reviewed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The pilot program runs through August 5, 2026.