Summary
The U.S. State Department is planning to require some visa applicants to pay a bond of up to $15,000. This is part of a 12-month pilot program aimed at those from countries with high visa overstay rates. The goal is to ensure compliance with visa terms and reduce financial risk for the U.S. government.
Key Facts
- The State Department's proposal applies to business and tourist visa applicants.
- Applicants from countries with high overstay rates might need to post bonds of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000.
- The program starts 15 days after its formal publication and lasts for 12 months.
- Countries affected will be listed once the program is in effect.
- The bond requirement does not apply to countries in the Visa Waiver Program.
- The bond might be waived based on individual circumstances.
- Previous attempts to implement visa bonds were not followed through.
- The proposal is part of broader efforts to tighten visa application processes under the Trump administration.
