US Embassy clarifies visa bond pilot program

The United States embassy in Namibia has clarified that the U.S. visa bond pilot program, which came into effect in Namibia on January 1, 2026, applies exclusively to Namibian citizens applying for B1/B2 business and tourist visas.

The visa bond requirement forms part of a global pilot program being implemented in Namibia and 37 other countries.

The embassy explained that Namibian students traveling to the United States on F or M visas are not affected by the visa bond requirement. Participants in U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs, as well as other cultural and professional exchanges traveling on J visas, are also exempt.

The embassy further indicated that the visa bond does not constitute a fee. The bond is refundable, provided travelers comply with the conditions of their U.S. visas.

Once a traveler returns to Namibia and all visa requirements have been met, including refraining from unauthorised employment and departing the United States within the permitted timeframe, the bond is automatically canceled and the funds returned.