The US will require travellers from about 12 countries, including Ethiopia, to post a bond of up to 15,000 dollars, approximately 2.3 million birr at current exchange rates, when applying for entry into the United States, according to a United States State Department official on March 19, 2026. The measure is part of an expanded visa bond programme affecting 50 countries and applies to B1 and B2 visa categories for business and tourism. The State Department said the policy will take effect on April 2, 2026. Officials said the bond is not a fee but a temporary security deposit, refundable if visa holders comply with entry conditions, including returning home as required or not overstaying their permitted period. The policy has raised concerns over affordability and fairness. While United States authorities describe it as a compliance tool, critics argue it could disproportionately affect applicants from developing countries and further restrict global mobility.

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