The United States State Department announced plans to expand its visa bond program beginning April 2, requiring travelers from five African nations qualified for the World Cup to post bonds of up to $15,000 to enter the country.

The policy affects passport holders from Algeria, Côte d'Ivoire, Senegal, Tunisia, and Cape Verde who seek to enter the US under B-1 business or B-2 tourist visas. All five countries have qualified for upcoming World Cup competition.

Visa bonds function as security deposits, with amounts typically ranging between $5,000 and $15,000. The payments are intended to be refunded after travelers exit the United States in compliance with their visa terms.

The expanded program does not appear to include exceptions for athletes or sports officials from the affected countries. The policy comes as the United States prepares to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico.

The State Department's visa bond program has previously applied to travelers from other nations as a requirement for legal entry into the United States. The bonds are designed to ensure compliance with visa conditions and timely departure from the country.