Archive · 3 Aug 2026
US Makes Visa Bond Program Permanent, Affects 50 Countries
The United States has made a new rule that stays in place forever.
People who want to visit the US for business or tourism from 50 countries might have to put down a money deposit of $10,000 or $20,000.
The money is a promise that they will follow the rules while in the US.
If they leave on time and follow the rules, the money comes back to them.
If they break the rules, the money can be taken away.
The rule is most common for people from Africa, but it also covers some countries in South Asia, like Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal.
US permanently adopts visa bond program for B1/B2 visas.
50 countries listed, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal in South Asia.
Bonds range $10,000 or $20,000, refundable if stay complies.
Africa has 30 countries most affected.
Consular officers decide bond necessity; not a visa fee.
- Who
- US Department of State
- What
- Permanent visa bond program for B1/B2 visitor visas
- When
- Effective August 3, 2024
- Where
- Citizens of 50 countries worldwide
- Why
- To ensure compliance with visa conditions
- Program
- Permanent Visa Bond Program
- Effective Date
- August 3, 2024
- Countries Covered
- 50
- Bond Amounts
- $10,000 or $20,000
- Refundable
- Yes if stay complies
- Affected Continent
- Africa (30 countries)