U.S. Visa Bond Requirements for Nicaraguans
Nicaraguan citizens applying for U.S. B1/B2 visitor visas will be required to post a bond between $5,000 and $15,000. This change primarily impacts local partners, employees, or family members of expats in Nicaragua who intend to travel to the United States.
U.S. Visa Bond Requirements for Nicaraguans
The U.S. Department of State has expanded its visa bond pilot program to include Nicaraguan citizens applying for B1/B2 visitor visas. Effective April 2, 2026, certain applicants must post a refundable bond to secure a visa for business or tourism. This measure is part of a broader effort to address high overstay rates among travelers from specific nations.
Consular officers now have the authority to require bonds in the amounts of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000. These funds act as a guarantee that the traveler will comply with the terms of their stay and depart the United States on schedule. While the program was originally established in late 2025, Nicaragua was added to the list of 50 participating countries on March 18, 2026.
Who is impacted
This change primarily affects Nicaraguan passport holders planning short-term trips for vacation, family visits, or business meetings. It does not apply to visas issued before the effective date. For the expat community living in Nicaragua, this creates a significant financial hurdle for local partners, employees, or family members who wish to accompany them on trips to the U.S.
How the process works
If a consular officer determines a bond is necessary during the interview, the applicant must follow a specific payment protocol:
- Submit DHS Form I-352 only after receiving official direction from the consulate.
- Make payments exclusively through Pay.gov; third-party payments are not eligible for refunds.
- Travelers must enter and exit the U.S. via commercial airports or CBP preclearance locations.
Bonds are typically refunded automatically if the traveler departs on time or if the visa expires without being used. However, any breach of terms, such as overstaying or applying for asylum, results in the total forfeiture of the bond. Early data from the pilot program shows a 97% compliance rate among participants from other countries.
Stay informed on the latest visa updates to ensure your travel plans remain on track. Read our full Nicaragua guide for the complete picture.