Summary
The United States has introduced new visa rules requiring travelers from certain countries to pay a bond of up to $15,000 for business and tourist visas. This measure is meant to deter visa overstays. A total of 50 countries are now affected, with 12 newly added.
Key Facts
- The U.S. has expanded its visa bond program for B-1 and B-2 visas.
- Travelers from certain countries must pay bonds of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 before getting a visa.
- The bond money is returned if travelers leave the U.S. before their visa expires; otherwise, they forfeit it.
- A consular officer decides if a bond is needed during the visa interview.
- The latest expansion includes 12 new countries, making the total 50 countries affected.
- Selection of countries is based on overstay rates and other immigration risks.
- This rule change is part of a broader tightening of U.S. visa screenings.
- The State Department may add or remove countries from the bond list based on future immigration risk assessments.
