WASHINGTON: The US Department of State has decided to make its visa bond program permanent, requiring certain applicants for B1 (business) and B2 (tourist) visas from 50 designated countries to post a bond of up to $20,000 as a condition for visa issuance.
According to international media reports, the decision follows the department’s assessment of a pilot program launched in 2025, which officials said proved effective in improving compliance with US immigration and visa regulations.
Under the new policy, visa applicants may be required to pay a refundable bond of up to $20,000. The previous bond options of $5,000, $10,000, and $15,000 have been revised, with the $5,000 option removed and the maximum amount increased to $20,000.
The regulation is scheduled to take effect after its official publication in the Federal Register on August 3.
US authorities said the measure is aimed at reducing the number of visitors who overstay their visas and remain in the country unlawfully. Of the 50 countries covered by the program, around 30 are in Africa.
The move is part of broader efforts by the United States to tighten immigration enforcement. In addition to measures targeting illegal immigration, the government has also introduced stricter requirements for legal visa applicants, including new visa fees for certain categories and enhanced scrutiny of applicants’ social media activity.
