The United States has announced a new measure requiring nationals of dozens of countries to provide a financial bond when applying for short-term visitor visas, in an effort to curb visa overstays.
According to a notice published by the US Department of State, the decision applies to applicants for temporary visitor visas (B1/B2) and is being rolled out gradually from late 2025, with full implementation expected by January 2026.
Algeria is among the countries affected by the new requirement, alongside several nations in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Other North African countries, including Morocco, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt, are excluded from the measure.
Under the new rules, eligible applicants from the listed countries may be asked to deposit a financial bond ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. The amount is to be determined during the consular interview and would be refunded if the visa holder leaves the United States within the authorised period of stay.
US authorities say the measure forms part of a pilot programme based on data from the Department of Homeland Security on overstay rates among certain nationalities. Washington argues that the financial bond acts as a deterrent and an incentive to comply with visa conditions.
The decision also stipulates that visa holders subject to the bond must enter and exit the United States through designated airports, including New York, Washington, Boston, Los Angeles and Chicago, as well as selected airports in Canada. Failure to comply could result in refusal of entry or the absence of official proof of departure.
The State Department stressed that paying the bond does not guarantee the issuance of a visa, and warned that any payments made outside official government channels are non-refundable. It added that the bond may be forfeited if a visa holder violates the terms of stay or seeks to change legal status, including by applying for asylum.
The move is expected to have a direct impact on Algerians planning to travel to the United States next summer, particularly those hoping to attend the football World Cup, which the US will host jointly with Canada and Mexico.
Observers say the requirement to deposit up to $15,000 could represent a significant obstacle for many supporters, especially younger fans, at a time when travel and accommodation costs are already high.
Algeria is set to take part in the tournament, and a strong turnout from Algerian supporters and the diaspora had been anticipated. However, the new visa conditions are likely to limit that presence and reduce the number of travellers.
