U.S. Visa Updates for Zimbabwe

The United States has announced major changes to its visa policy for Zimbabwean nationals, including the suspension of most visa issuances starting in 2026, citing national security and public safety concerns. Under Presidential Proclamation 10998, the U.S. government will halt the issuance of B (business and tourist), F (student), M (trainee), J (exchange visitor), K (fiance[e]), and all immigrant visas to Zimbabwean citizens effective January 1, 2026. While affected applicants may still submit applications and attend scheduled interviews, they could ultimately be deemed ineligible for visa issuance or entry into the United States. Holders of currently valid U.S. visas are unaffected and may continue to travel.

Routine visa services at the U.S. Embassy in Harare remain paused, except for most diplomatic and official visas. Zimbabweans seeking U.S. nonimmigrant visas are now required to apply through the U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg, South Africa. U.S. authorities cautioned that visa application fees are non-refundable and non-transferable, even if applications are refused or delayed. Applicants applying outside their country of nationality or residence may also face longer processing times and additional scrutiny.

Starting January 21, 2026, Zimbabwean nationals seeking B1/B2 business or tourist visas will be required to post a bond of up to US$15,000. Consular officers will determine bond eligibility during visa interviews and provide payment instructions, warning applicants against using third-party websites or paying before receiving official guidance. B1/B2 visas will not be issued until the bond is paid.

In addition, the U.S. Department of State has introduced expanded social media vetting for applicants of H-1B employment visas, H-4 dependents, and F, M, or J visas, requiring all accounts to be set to public. This measure aims to support identity verification and admissibility screening under U.S. law. Issuances under the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program have also been paused with immediate effect, and affected applicants are advised to monitor official channels for updates.

Certain visa categories remain unaffected or have been adjusted. Validity for C1/D transit and crew member visas for Zimbabweans has been extended to 24 months with multiple entry, and applications may be submitted at the U.S. Embassy in Johannesburg.

The U.S. government stressed that these measures are part of broader efforts to strengthen border controls, prevent visa overstays, and curb misuse of U.S. visas. Routine and emergency services for American citizens in Zimbabwe will continue without interruption. Further details are available through official U.S. government channels, including travel.state.gov.