The U.S. Superyacht Association is sharing an update regarding visa bond requirements that may affect certain foreign nationals applying for U.S. B-1/B-2 visitor visas.
According to information provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the U.S. Department of State, applicants from designated countries who are otherwise eligible for a B-1/B-2 visa may be required to post a refundable visa bond of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000. The bond amount is determined during the visa application process.
While the majority of yacht crew entering the United States originate from Visa Waiver Program countries or countries not currently subject to the bond requirement, this policy may impact some prospective crew members, visitors, and industry professionals traveling to the United States.
Of particular note to the superyacht industry, visa bond holders are required to enter and depart the United States through designated commercial air ports of entry, including CBP preclearance locations. Individuals subject to the bond requirement may not use charter aircraft, general aviation aircraft, land border crossings, or sea ports of entry.
Countries Subject to Visa Bond Requirements (as of April 2026)
Algeria, Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Bangladesh, Benin, Bhutan, Botswana, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Central African Republic, Côte d'Ivoire, Cuba, Djibouti, Dominica, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gabon, The Gambia, Georgia, Grenada, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kyrgyz Republic, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mongolia, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
USSA encourages members, owners, captains, crew agencies, and industry professionals to review the most current guidance and consult directly with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the U.S. Department of State regarding individual travel circumstances and visa eligibility.
For additional information, please visit the U.S. Department of State — Countries Subject to Visa Bonds page.
USSA Advocacy Updates are provided to help keep members informed of regulatory and policy developments that may impact the American superyacht industry.