Bangladeshis Must Pay Up to $15,000 Bond for US Visas

Bangladesh nationals applying for new B1/B2 (business and tourist) visas will be required to pay a bond of up to $15,000, effective January 21, 2026. The announcement was made by the US Embassy in Dhaka on Monday, emphasizing that the bond is refundable if the visa holder complies with the terms and conditions of their stay in the United States.

In a post on X, the Embassy clarified that this requirement applies only to those who receive approval for their B1/B2 visa after the specified date. “Do NOT pay your bond in advance,” the Embassy warned. “Paying early does not guarantee you a visa, and third-party sites can be scams. Any payment made before your interview is NOT refundable.”

The bond system is part of a pilot programme established by the US Department of State that affects nationals from 37 countries. Alongside Bangladesh, countries included in this list feature nations from Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and the Pacific, such as Nigeria, Nepal, Bhutan, Cuba, Senegal, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe.

The bond amounts can vary between $5,000, $10,000, and $15,000, depending on individual circumstances assessed during the visa interview. The specific sum is determined at that time, and the requirement aims to mitigate risks associated with visa overstays and non-compliance.

This initiative reflects broader immigration policies that seek to enhance security and ensure that visa holders adhere to the rules laid out for their stay. The introduction of a bond for specific countries underscores the ongoing adjustments in the US visa process as authorities aim to balance accessibility with security concerns.

Individuals interested in applying for a B1/B2 visa should prepare for this additional requirement and ensure they are informed about the process to avoid any potential scams or miscommunications.