US Imposes Visa Bonds on Caribbean
The US Department of State has introduced mandatory visa bonds for nationals of Antigua & Barbuda and Dominica, with amounts set at US$5,000, US$10,000 or US$15,000. The rule, published January 6, 2026 and effective January 21, 2026, also restricts entry to three US airports and may affect British Virgin Islands residents who require B1/B2 visas.
The United States has announced a new requirement for travellers from Antigua & Barbuda and Dominica to post a monetary bond when applying for B1/B2 (business and tourist) visas, a move published on Travel.State.Gov and last updated January 6, 2026. The rule takes effect on January 21, 2026 and sets bond amounts at US$5,000, US$10,000 or US$15,000, with the specific sum determined by a consular officer at the visa interview.
While the directive names Antigua & Barbuda and Dominica, it applies to applicants regardless of where they apply — meaning Caribbean nationals who attend interviews in London, Canada or elsewhere remain subject to the requirement. That raises immediate concerns for many in the British Virgin Islands who need B1/B2 visas for short-term business, tourism, study visits, caregiving, religious work, sports or family visits.
The measure includes strict entry and exit controls. Bondholders will be allowed to enter the United States only through Boston Logan International (BOS), John F. Kennedy International (JFK) or Washington Dulles International (IAD). Failure to use those designated ports of entry could lead to denied entry, improper departure records or forfeiture of the bond — a technical pitfall immigration advocates warn could disproportionately harm first-time travellers and elderly visitors.
According to the notice, bonds are automatically returned only if the traveller departs the US on or before the authorised stay expires, never uses the visa, or is denied entry at the port of entry. Bonds may be seized if the traveller overstays, remains unlawfully, or applies to adjust status (including seeking asylum).
Caribbean observers and civil society groups have criticised the policy as potentially punitive and disproportionate. In many Caribbean and African countries, the required sums exceed annual household incomes, creating a significant financial barrier for ordinary travellers. The policy could have knock-on effects for family travel, sporting delegations, students and small businesses in the BVI who rely on travel to the US.
BVI residents planning travel to the United States should check the latest guidance on Travel.State.Gov, prepare for higher upfront costs if a bond is imposed, and consider routing through one of the three designated airports. Local authorities, travel agents and community groups may need to monitor developments and liaise with regional partners to assess diplomatic or legal responses.
The announcement represents one of the most aggressive recent US visa enforcement measures and is likely to prompt further discussion between Caribbean governments and US officials over fairness, proportionality and practical impact.
Primary source: VINO