U.S. Imposes Up to $15,000 Visa Bonds on Travelers from Zambia and Malawi

Starting August 20, 2025, the U.S. Department of State launched a 12-month visa bond pilot program requiring certain B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourist) visa applicants from Zambia and Malawi to post a refundable bond ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 during their consular interview. This program is part of a broader effort to curb visa overstays.     

The bond amount of $5,000 to $15,000 is set at the discretion of the consular officer, based on the applicant’s risk profile. The applicant must pay that money up front to the U.S. government before the visa can be issued. The bond will be refunded to those who follow the visa rules (e.g., you leave the U.S. before your visa expires, don’t overstay, don’t switch to an unlawful status).

Also, Visa validity is sharply reduced: single-entry, valid for up to 3 months, and actual U.S. stay is typically capped at 30 days. Entry and departure must happen through only three designated airports Boston Logan, JFK (New York), or Washington Dulles.      

The U.S. government cites several reasons for the bond requirement including high overstay rates among nationals of Malawi and Zambia, based on DHS data for fiscal year 2023. Overstay rates were about 14.3% for Malawi and 11.1% for Zambia.    

Described as a “legalized shakedown,” the bond scheme has sparked strong backlash. Critics, including CAIR, argue it targets vulnerable lawful travelers and turns the U.S. “welcome mat into a paywall.” David Bier of the Cato Institute called the requirement “draconian,” arguing it’s not truly about compliance but effectively banning access to the U.S. for many.

Zambian government warn the bond places “unnecessary financial strain” on their citizens, potentially disrupting trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.    With an average household income of just $150/month, the bond becomes not just unaffordable but almost inconceivable. 

Malawi has not yet issued an official response, though international attention and pressure are mounting.

The high upfront cost even though refundable creates an economic barrier, excluding many from lower-income backgrounds. Families with ties to U.S. residents may find travel financially impractical, raising barriers to reunions, emergencies, and essential visits.

 Reduced visa validity and entry constraints (single-entry, 30-day stay, designated airports) limit flexibility, especially challenging for business travelers needing longer stays or multiple engagements.  Travelers who later attempt to adjust status or apply for asylum will forfeit their bond effectively making the bond a barrier even for escape-level asylum seekers.

Zambia has already signaled its intent to engage the United States for a reconsideration, and Malawi may feel pressure to respond next.   

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