politics
May 7, 2026
10-year visas are no longer issued to Nicaraguans, clarifies the United States consulate in Managua
Corey Bordenkecher, Washington's consul general, emphasized that new tourist and business visas (B1-B2) for Nicaraguans will have a maximum validity of 90 days, will be for single entry, and generally contemplate stays of up to 30 days. He also explained that bonds of between $5,000 and $15,000 apply to Nicaraguan citizens at any U.S. consulate worldwide. Valid visas issued before April 2, 2026, can continue to be used until their expiration date. Other visas, such as student visas, remain exempt from bonds.
TL;DR
- A pilot program has been launched, requiring bonds of up to $15,000 for tourist and business visa (B1/B2) applicants from 50 countries, including Nicaragua.
- New B1/B2 visas now have a maximum validity of 90 days and are for single entry, with typical stays of up to 30 days.
- The visa application process remains the same, but an additional bond payment is required after a successful interview.
- Bonds can be paid using various methods, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, Venmo, or bank transfer, and can be paid by a third party.
- Visas issued before April 2, 2026, remain valid until their expiration date; however, new applications or renewals are subject to the new policy.
- If a person overstays, fails to depart on time, or changes their status (e.g., seeking asylum), the bond is considered breached and may be forfeited.
- The bond is refunded if all conditions are met, including timely departure from an authorized port of entry, with refunds processed automatically within 90 days or upon request with evidence.
- This bond requirement does not apply to other visa categories like transit, student, academic, work, crewmember, or diplomatic visas.