The U.S. State Department has announced a one-year pilot program requiring certain business and tourist visa applicants to post a bond ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. This initiative, effective August 20, 2025, aims to reduce visa overstays and enhance immigration enforcement.
The program targets applicants from countries identified as having high visa overstay rates or insufficient internal document security. Specific countries subject to this requirement will be announced on the State Department's website at least 15 days before the program's implementation. Citizens from countries enrolled in the Visa Waiver Program are exempt from this bond requirement.
Consular officers will determine the bond amount based on individual circumstances. The bond is refundable if the visa holder complies with all visa terms and departs the U.S. within the authorized period. Failure to adhere to visa conditions may result in forfeiture of the bond.
This measure is part of broader efforts to strengthen U.S. immigration policies and ensure that visitors depart the country as authorized.