- The U.S. is reintroducing a visa bond program for certain foreign visitors.
- Travelers may need to deposit up to $15,000 for short-term business or tourism entry.
- The initiative aims to reduce the number of visa overstays.
The United States is set to reintroduce a visa bond program that could require certain foreign visitors to deposit as much as $15,000 before being allowed entry for short-term business or tourism purposes. The initiative is aimed at discouraging travelers from overstaying their visas.
Originally launched during the final months of the Trump administration, the policy will apply to applicants for B‑1 (business) and B‑2 (tourist) visas from nations with a history of high overstay rates.
Although the State Department has yet to reveal which countries will be affected, officials confirmed that the list will be released at least two weeks before the program begins. Once the rule is published in the Federal Register, it will take effect 15 days later, giving travelers and foreign governments roughly a month to prepare. The pilot phase is expected to last for one year.
How the Bond Works
Under the program, selected travelers identified by consular officers will need to post a refundable bond up to $15,000 on top of standard visa fees. If the traveler leaves the U.S. before their visa expires, the bond will be returned; if not, the deposit will be forfeited.
Officials emphasize that the measure is intended as a deterrent rather than a source of revenue. However, critics warn that the financial barrier could prevent many legitimate travelers from visiting the U.S.
The Department of Homeland Security has long expressed concern over visa overstays, which affect tens of thousands of visitors annually. The program also targets countries with weak identity verification systems or those that offer citizenship-for-investment programs, which officials argue can make it harder to track travelers and enforce immigration rules.
Potential Impact on Travelers
For visitors from economically challenged countries, the new bond could make U.S. travel financially unattainable. Beyond the bond, applicants already face regular visa fees, airfare, and other travel expenses.
Immigration advocates and business groups warn that the policy could discourage tourism, family visits, and business trips. “It’s not just the $15,000 it signals that travelers from certain countries are viewed with suspicion,” one advocate said.
Though the concept first emerged under President Trump, it was never fully rolled out. Its revival highlights a renewed focus on tighter border control and visa compliance amid ongoing political debates over U.S. immigration policy.
The State Department has indicated that it will monitor the program’s effects throughout the 12‑month trial period. Travelers from potential high‑risk countries are advised to watch for upcoming announcements to determine whether they will be required to post a bond.
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