At the start of 2026, the US administration implemented major changes that directly impact travelers from Senegal. Between temporary suspensions and new financial guarantees, obtaining a visa for the United States now requires much more rigorous preparation.
1. Major Changes and Restrictions (January 2026)
Two main measures modify the procedures for Senegalese citizens:
The Guarantee System (Visa Bond): Since January 21, 2026, Senegal has been added to the list of countries subject to a mandatory financial guarantee for short-stay visas (B-1/B-2).
Partial Suspension of Visas (Proclamation 10998): Following the Presidential Proclamation of January 1, 2026, entry and the issuance of visas are restricted or suspended for certain categories (including tourist, business and student visas), due to a high rate of overstaying.
Immigration Visa Freeze: The processing of immigration visas (Green Cards) for Senegalese nationals is suspended indefinitely in order to reassess the financial eligibility criteria.
2. Financial and Documentary Requirements
The Financial Guarantee (Visa Bond)
If your B-1 (Business) or B-2 (Tourism) visa application is approved, the consular officer may require payment of a deposit.
Amount: Between $5,000 and $15,000 (approximately 3 to 9 million FCFA).
Procedure: Payment must be made via the official platform (Pay.gov) only after instruction from the embassy. Never pay through a third-party website.
Refund: The sum is recoverable only if you leave the United States before the expiry date of your authorized stay and via a designated airport (often JFK, Dulles or Boston).
Justification of the Links with Senegal
Due to new “vetting” policies (extreme vetting), you must provide irrefutable evidence of your intention to return to the country:
Title deeds or lease agreements.
Stable employment contracts and payslips.
Evidence of family ties in Senegal.
3. Penalties and Consequences for Non-Compliance
US authorities have tightened penalties for any overstay of the authorized length of stay (the date indicated on the I-94 form upon arrival, and not the date on the visa).