US redirects African visa applications to Dakar and imposes up to $20,000 fees

Effective 1 August 2026 the United States will no longer process visa applications for Mali at its Bamako embassy. Applicants from Mali and other African nations must now submit their requests to the U.S. Embassy in Dakar, Senegal, which will serve as a regional processing centre.

At the same time the U.S. has introduced an additional security fee for nationals of 30 African countries. The fee, described as a “caution” or bond, can be as high as $20,000 and is intended to fund enhanced vetting and security measures. The changes are presented by the U.S. Department of State as a way to streamline procedures, improve consistency and strengthen border security across the continent.

The reforms affect thousands of prospective travelers from across Africa, adding both a new logistical step and a significant financial burden.