Ugandan nationals applying for U.S. short-term visitor visas (B1/B2 for business or tourism) will now face a new financial requirement, as the U.S. Department of State has included Uganda in its expanded Visa Bond Pilot Program.
According to an official notice updated on Travel.state.gov on January 6, 2026, starting January 21, 2026, eligible Ugandan applicants must post a refundable bond of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 – amount decided by a consular officer during the interview.
This places Uganda among over 40 countries (mostly in Africa, the Caribbean, and Asia) targeted to deter visa overstays, based on data from the Department of Homeland Security’s Entry/Exit Overstay Report.
Key Details on the Bond:
• Paid via Pay.gov using form I-352 after consular direction(unofficial payments won’t be refunded).
• Does not replace standard visa fees or guarantee approval.
• Travelers must enter/exit via designated airports: Boston Logan (BOS), New York JFK, or Washington Dulles (IAD) for accurate tracking.
• Full refund if: Visa denied, no travel occurs, or departure is on/before authorised date.
• Forfeiture possible if: Overstay, status change (e.g., asylum application), or non-compliance.
The move adds a major barrier for many Ugandans, with $15,000 equating to over shs55 million — unaffordable for most tourists or small-scale business travelers amid existing costs like fees, flights, and ties proofs.
Travel agents in Kampala predict reduced U.S. travel demand, especially for first-timers. Ugandan authorities have yet to respond publicly.
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