You want to read this if you're planning a trip to the USA
This is not exactly ideal news for South African travellers, especially football fans.
Are you planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the USA for the 2026 FIFA Soccer World Cup?
Or maybe you're just planning a nice little trip abroad? A new twist in the travel tale could come with a potentially hefty price tag.
Starting on August 20, the United States of America is launching a 12-month pilot programme that could require some travellers—yes, possibly South Africans—to fork out a refundable visa bond of up to R275,000.
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The idea is that if you're travelling on a short-term business (B-1) or tourist (B-2) visa, and the U.S. thinks you might be tempted to “overstay your welcome,” you’ll need to put down a chunky deposit.
If you leave the U.S. on time and stick to your visa terms, you’ll get it back.
If not, say cheers to your Randelas.
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The bond could range from R92,000, R183,000, or R275,000, depending on your "risk level."
So far, the U.S. hasn’t confirmed which countries will be affected, but they’ve hinted at places with "high overstay rates," "passport-for-sale" schemes, and "dodgy vetting systems."
South Africa has not been listed, yet, but we know how quickly things can change under President Donald Trump's leadership.
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This isn't just a pay-up-and-go situation. If you're required to post a bond, you also have to:
- Enter and exit the U.S. through specific airports
- Have all your travel plans documented in advance
- Hope the exchange rate doesn’t tank while your bond’s being held
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