Published by Destinations au Soleil
Planning a trip to the United States for business, tourism, or to visit family? A major change in U.S. visa policy could affect travelers from many African countries.
The United States has officially made its Visa Bond Program permanent. Under the new rules, certain applicants for B1 (Business) and B2 (Tourist) visas may be required to pay a refundable visa bond of up to USD 20,000 before a visa can be issued. The policy came into effect on 3 August 2026 and replaces the earlier pilot program.
What is the U.S. Visa Bond?
A visa bond is not a visa fee. It is a refundable financial guarantee required from selected applicants.
If the traveler respects all visa conditions and leaves the United States before the authorized stay expires, the bond is refunded. However, if the visa conditions are violated, the bond may be forfeited.
Why Did the U.S. Introduce This Policy?
According to the U.S. Department of State, the program aims to:
- Reduce visa overstays.
- Encourage compliance with U.S. immigration laws.
- Strengthen border security.
The U.S. says data from the pilot program showed a significant reduction in visa overstays, leading to the decision to make the program permanent.
Is Ghana Included?
No. Ghana is currently NOT on the list of countries subject to the Visa Bond Program. However, the U.S. government has indicated that countries may be added or removed in the future depending on immigration data and visa overstay trends.
African Countries Currently Affected
The following African countries are currently listed under the Visa Bond Program:
- Algeria
- Angola
- Benin
- Botswana
- Burundi
- Cabo Verde
- Central African Republic
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Djibouti
- Ethiopia
- Gabon
- The Gambia
- Guinea
- Guinea-Bissau
- Lesotho
- Malawi
- Mauritania
- Mauritius
- Mozambique
- Namibia
- Nigeria
- São Tomé and Príncipe
- Senegal
- Seychelles
- Tanzania
- Togo
- Tunisia
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
What Does This Mean for Travelers?
If you are from one of the listed countries, you may be asked by a U.S. consular officer to post a refundable bond before receiving a visitor visa. Not every applicant will automatically be required to pay the bond, as the decision is made during the visa process.
How Destinations au Soleil Can Help
At Destinations au Soleil, we help travelers across Ghana and Africa navigate changing visa requirements with confidence.
Our services include:
- Professional U.S. visa application assistance
- Visa documentation review
- Appointment guidance
- Travel itinerary preparation
- Flight reservations
- Hotel bookings
- Travel insurance
- Personalized travel advice
Our experienced team stays updated with the latest immigration and travel policies to help you prepare a strong visa application.
Need Help with Your U.S. Visa?
Whether you are traveling for tourism, business, conferences, family visits, or special events, Destinations au Soleil is here to support your journey.
Contact Destinations au Soleil today for professional visa assistance and expert travel services across Ghana and Africa.
