The United States Embassy in Dhaka has announced the introduction of a significant new requirement for Bangladeshi nationals applying for US business and tourist visas (B1/B2). The policy, which will come into force on 21 January 2026, introduces a visa bond system aimed at ensuring compliance with the terms and duration of stay in the United States.
The announcement was made on Monday via the embassy’s officially verified Facebook page, underscoring the importance of the update for thousands of prospective travellers from Bangladesh who seek entry to the US for short-term business or leisure purposes.
According to the embassy’s statement, Bangladeshi citizens who are approved for a B1 or B2 visa on or after 21 January 2026 may be required to deposit a visa bond of up to 15,000 US dollars. The exact amount of the bond will be determined on a case-by-case basis and will depend on individual circumstances assessed during the visa process.
However, the embassy clarified that this new requirement will not apply to holders of valid B1/B2 visas issued before 21 January 2026. Those travellers will be allowed to enter the United States under the terms of their existing visas without any obligation to provide a bond.
In a strongly worded advisory, the US Embassy urged applicants to remain vigilant against fraud. It emphasised that no bond payment should be made prior to the visa interview. Paying a bond in advance does not guarantee visa approval, and any payment made before the interview stage is strictly non-refundable. The embassy also warned that third-party websites or intermediaries claiming to facilitate bond payments may be fraudulent.
The visa bond, where required, will be fully refundable, provided the visa holder complies with all visa conditions. This includes adhering to the permitted length of stay, engaging only in authorised activities, and departing the United States within the stipulated time frame. Failure to comply with these conditions may result in forfeiture of the bond.
Policy analysts suggest that the introduction of a visa bond system reflects broader efforts by US authorities to strengthen immigration compliance while continuing to facilitate legitimate travel. For Bangladeshi travellers, the measure adds a new financial and procedural consideration, making it essential to plan travel carefully and rely solely on official embassy guidance.
Key Details of the US Visa Bond Policy
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | B1/B2 (Business & Tourism) |
| Effective Date | 21 January 2026 |
| Maximum Bond Amount | Up to USD 15,000 |
| Applicable To | Bangladeshi nationals approved on or after the effective date |
| Exemptions | B1/B2 visas issued before 21 January 2026 |
| Bond Payment Timing | Only after visa interview and approval |
| Refund Policy | Refundable if all visa conditions are met |
| Fraud Warning | Avoid third-party websites and advance payments |