Archive · 20 Jul 2026
Proposed $100,000 Green Card Bond Faces Legal Hurdles
The US government is thinking about making some people who want to live in the US permanently pay a big bond of $100,000.
This money would be returned only after they become US citizens, which can take many years.
Some experts say this is unfair because many people cannot afford such a large amount.
They also think this rule might not be allowed in court because it could be seen as unfair and discriminatory.
Right now, the fee to apply for a green card is much smaller, around $1,440.
The new rule would make it much harder for people to immigrate to the US unless they are very rich.
The Trump administration is considering a $100,000 bond for certain green card applicants to ensure financial self-sufficiency.
The bond would be refundable only after the applicant obtains US citizenship, which can take several years.
Immigration experts believe the measure is unlikely to survive legal scrutiny if implemented.
The current green card application fee is $1,440, making the proposed bond a 4,900% increase.
Critics argue the bond creates a financial barrier that many genuine applicants cannot afford, making legal immigration a privilege for the rich.
- Who
- Green card applicants from outside the United States
- What
- Proposed $100,000 bond for green card applicants
- When
- Currently under consideration by the US State Department
- Where
- United States
- Why
- To ensure immigrants are financially self-sufficient and do not become dependent on public welfare programs
Immigration Advocates
Trump Administration
Financial Barrier
Immigration Advocates
The $100,000 bond is an enormous financial barrier that many genuine applicants cannot afford, making legal immigration a privilege for the rich.
Trump Administration
The bond ensures immigrants are financially self-sufficient and do not become dependent on public welfare programs.
Legal Scrutiny
Immigration Advocates
The bond could be challenged as unreasonable, discriminatory, and inconsistent with principles of equal access under the law.
Trump Administration
The proposal is part of a broader effort to ensure financial self-sufficiency among immigrants.
- Proposed Bond Amount
- $100,000
- Current Green Card Fee
- $1,440 (Form I-485)
- Medical Examination Cost
- $500
- Form I-140 Cost
- $665
- Percentage Increase
- 4,900%