The US is introducing a visa bond for Nigerians from April 2. Here's what it means and who it hits.

Thirteen days from today, the United States introduces something that fundamentally changes what it costs to visit America.

From April 2, nationals of 50 countries — including Nigeria — applying for B1/B2 business and tourism visas must post a refundable bond of up to $15,000 before entry. The money comes back if you leave before your visa expires. If you overstay, you lose it. The US Department of State says the policy has already shown a 97% compliance rate among early participants.

Let's be precise about what this is.

It's not a travel ban. Nigerians with existing valid B1/B2 visas are not affected — the bond applies to new applicants. It's not a fee. It's a deposit, theoretically returnable. But requiring someone to place $15,000 into US government hands before boarding a plane is a wealth test. It's saying: only Nigerians who can prove liquid access to this amount in advance can apply for a tourist visa. That's not most Nigerians.

This policy sits on top of existing restrictions that have been building since January. Presidential Proclamation 10998, in effect since January 1, already suspended immigrant visa issuance for Nigerian nationals. A USCIS policy memo placed a hold on benefit processing for Nigerians — meaning green card applications, adjustment of status filings, and work permit requests are currently in a queue with no stated timeline for resolution. Approved immigration benefits for Nigerians who entered after January 2021 are also being re-reviewed.

The direction of US policy on Nigerian migration is not ambiguous. The question is what you do with that information.

Practically: if you have a pending USCIS application, it's worth engaging a qualified immigration attorney now — not to panic, but to understand where your case sits and what options you have. If you're planning a first-time US visit for business or family, factor the bond requirement into your timeline and financial planning. If you have a child on a student visa whose status will require renewal, start that process earlier than you normally would.

Tinubu was at Windsor signing migration cooperation agreements with the UK this week. The US is doing something different, with less ceremony and more consequences.