Archive · 4 Oct 2025
US Visa Bond Program Adds New Countries
The U.S. government has started a new program where visitors from certain countries need to pay a bond to get a visa.
This is like a deposit that they get back if they follow the rules.
This program targets people from countries where many visitors stay in the U.S. longer than allowed.
The amount of the bond can be $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, depending on the person.
If the visitor leaves the U.S. on time, the money is returned.
People affected must enter the U.S. through specific airports.
If they don't follow the rules, the money is not returned.
The U.S. is implementing a visa bond pilot program for temporary visitors.
Travelers from certain countries with high overstay rates must post a bond.
Bond amounts range from $5,000 to $15,000, determined at the interview.
The bond is returned if visa terms are followed, including departure on time.
Failure to comply with visa terms may result in the bond being forfeited.
- Who
- US Department of State
- What
- Implementing a visa bond pilot program.
- When
- Started August 20, 2025, and will last until August 5, 2026
- Where
- United States
- Why
- To address high visa overstay rates and potential screening deficiencies.
- Program Start Date
- August 20, 2025
- Program End Date
- August 5, 2026
- Bond Amount
- $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000
- Affected Visa Type
- B-1/B-2 (temporary visitors)
- Required Entry Airports
- Boston Logan, JFK, Washington Dulles
- Countries Currently on the List
- The Gambia, Malawi, Zambia