New bond requirement for Seychellois nationals applying for B1/B2 US visas |23 March 2026

New bond requirement for Seychellois nationals applying for B1/B2 US visas

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora has said that effective April 2, 2026, the government of the United States of America will require Seychelles nationals applying for a (B1) business or (B2) tourist visa, and who are found eligible for issuance, to post a bond of up to US $15,000 prior to receiving the visa.

“Applicants will be informed of the bond amount at the time of their interview and will subsequently receive a letter outlining the relevant details,” read a communique from the ministry adding, that an email will thereafter be issued with instructions on the payment process.

The ministry is further advising the public that visa holders who have paid the required bond will be permitted to enter and exit the United States through all commercial airports.

“Entry through seaports and land borders will not be permitted. The visa will be issued for a single entry and will be valid for a period of three months,” added the communique.

Upon departure from the United States on or before the date authorised by immigration authorities, the bond will be cancelled and the funds will be automatically refunded to the visa holder.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora is informing the public that this requirement applies solely to B1/B2 visas and does not extend to visa categories F, M, or J student and exchange visas, H1 work visas, or C1/D crew visas.

Press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora