Nepalis seeking US visit and business visas required to deposit security amount from January 21

January 7, 2026, 06:14:22 PM |

KATHMANDU: Nepali nationals applying for US visit (B-2) and business (B-1) visas will now be required to deposit a substantial security amount as part of the visa process, as the United States tightens immigration compliance measures. The new provision will come into effect from January 21 (Magh 7), according to the US Department of State.

Under the revised rule, Nepalis traveling to the United States on B-1 or B-2 visas will be allowed to stay for a maximum period of six months. During the visa interview, US embassy officials may require applicants to deposit USD 5,000, USD 10,000, or USD 15,000, depending on individual risk assessment. In Nepali currency, this ranges from approximately Rs 722,000 to Rs 2.16 million.

The security deposit must be paid directly by the visa applicant through an official form of the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Payments made through third-party websites or by other individuals will not be accepted. The deposit is intended as a compliance guarantee and will be partially or fully forfeited if the visa holder overstays beyond the permitted duration.

In a further tightening of entry controls, Nepali citizens holding B-1 or B-2 visas will now be permitted to enter and exit the United States only through three designated international airports. These are Boston Logan International Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, and Washington Dulles International Airport. Travelers using other airports risk being detained by US authorities.

The US government has also made it mandatory for such visa holders to record their return date at the time of entry into the United States. Once the traveler leaves the country within the permitted period, the deposited amount will be refunded in full.

The provision allows refunds in certain other cases as well. Applicants who obtain a visa but do not travel, or those who are denied entry at the airport after visa issuance, will be eligible for a refund. However, US authorities have clearly stated that paying the deposit does not guarantee visa approval. Any deposit paid without explicit instruction from a US consular officer will not be refunded.

Moreover, the security amount will be confiscated if a traveler attempts to change visa status, applies for asylum, or submits an application for another type of visa while in the United States on a B-1 or B-2 visa.

The new policy is expected to significantly impact Nepali travelers, particularly first-time applicants and those with limited financial resources. Analysts say the measure reflects Washington’s growing focus on preventing visa overstays and misuse, especially from countries with higher non-compliance rates.

For Nepalis planning short-term travel to the United States, the announcement marks a major shift in visa procedures, adding a significant financial and procedural burden to business and leisure travel.

Fiscal Nepal |

Wednesday January 7, 2026, 06:14:22 PM |