The new United States tourism and business visas (B1-B2) for Nicaraguans will no longer be valid for ten yearsbut only for one entry and valid for three months, under the new immigration bond program applied to Nicaragua since April 2, 2026confirmed the consul general of the United States Embassy in Managua, Corey Bordenkecher.
The official further explained that These visas will typically allow stays of up to 30 days in the United States. —although the final time will be determined by the immigration authorities upon entering the country— and They can only be used to enter by commercial air.
During a press conference, in which he participated CONFIDENTIAL, held on May 6, 2026, the American diplomat warned that any breach of visa conditionsincluded A stay longer than the authorized time could cause the loss of the money deposited as a deposit..
As the diplomat explained, the measure is part of an expansion promoted by the State Department and currently reaches 50 countries. The primary goal, he stated, is to “drastically reduce the number of visa holders who overstay their welcome and remain illegally in the United States.”
Applicants must return to the country
Globally, 97% of people subject to the bail system have returned to their countries within the authorized time, he assured.
During the session, the consul answered several of the questions raised by the media and users on social networks, especially related to bail amounts, refunds, travel restrictions and the risks of fraud in the application process. Below is a list of the answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Will the new visas continue to be 10 years?
10-year B1 and B2 visas are no longer issued to Nicaraguans or the other 49 countries that are part of the new program. The new visas are valid for a single trip to the United States or a single entry. The visa is valid for 90 days, a period in which you must make the trip.
Can visas issued before this measure continue to be used?
Yes, holders of valid visas issued before April 2, 2026 can continue using their visa until its expiration date. If the visa was issued before April 2 and is still valid for 10 years, the new rules of this program do not apply to these visas.
How long can a Nica stay in the US?
Your length of stay is determined by the Customs and Border Protection agent upon entering the United States.
Who must pay the bail?
Bonds to all B1, B2 or combined B1 and B2 visa applicants, whether they are applying for the first time or renewing their visa, this includes tourism and/or business trips, including domestic employees who travel with their employer with a B1 visa. This does not apply to other visa categories such as transit, students, academics, work visas, crew members, official diplomats, etc.
Does the bail also apply to minors?
Yes, it applies to all Nicaraguan applicants, both children and adults, who apply with a Nicaraguan passport. The rate, as you may know, is up to $15,000 per person, but due to other factors the exact amount is determined in the interview.
When is the deposit paid?
During the interview, if the consular officer determines that you qualify for the visa, you will be given instructions to pay the bond to complete the process. If the officer determines that you do not qualify for the visa, you do not have to post any bond.
What happens if someone stays longer than allowed?
If you misuse the visa or stay longer than allowed, the applicant could be permanently banned from future trips and lose the refund of their deposit.
What happens if a person decides not to travel?
If there was any change in the applicant’s plans and they decide not to travel, they must notify the embassy, our offices, to begin the refund process. Since there will be no departure from the United States to automatically start the process. Your refund may take up to 90 days. However, it usually takes less time.
What happens to bail if you are denied entry to the US?
If you are traveling to the United States and for any reason are denied entry at the authorized port of entry, you may also receive a refund of your bond.
Can someone else pay the bail?
A third person can pay with your credit card and will receive the refund later. If a friend, family member, or even a company is going to support your bond, you should make that clear during the interview.
What payment methods are accepted to pay for the visa?
People can pay using any type of credit or debit card also such as PayPal, Venmo or bank transfer.
What ports can be used with this type of visa?
B1 or B2 visa holders under the new program can only enter by air on a commercial line. The visa cannot be used to enter through land ports such as the border of Mexico, Canada or by sea, that is, it does not apply to entries on cruise ships.
Does it apply even if the procedure is done from another country?
The visa bond program applies to all Nicaraguans regardless of where they apply for their visa. If the applicant uses their Nicaraguan passport to make their application, the deposit will be applied regardless of the country where they submit their application. For people with dual nationality, you can consider applying with the passport of your other nationality, but you should check if this nationality is also subject to payment of a deposit, since there are 50 countries to which you apply at this time.
Fraud alert
The consul also warned about possible scams related to the new system. He assured that many people could try to take advantage of the applicants’ lack of knowledge by offering supposedly guaranteed approvals or collecting irregular payments before the consular interview.
During the conference, the diplomat stressed that The bond must not be paid under any circumstances before the consular officer formally indicates it..
“There are no authorized agencies or personnel that can provide services outside our facilities,” the consul said.
Applicants must complete the appropriate form, pay the regular fee of $185 and attend the consular interview.
