Summary
The US State Department announced a program requiring travelers from certain countries to pay bonds up to $15,000 to enter the US. This program targets B-1 business and B-2 tourism visas and focuses on travelers from countries with higher rates of visa overstays. The program begins on August 20 and the bond will be refunded if visitors comply with visa terms.
Key Facts
- The bond program targets travelers from countries with high visa overstay rates.
- It affects B-1 business and B-2 tourism visa applicants.
- Bonds can be $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000.
- The program starts on August 20 and will run for 12 months as a pilot.
- The US expects about 2,000 applicants will need to post these bonds.
- Mexico, Canada, and Visa Waiver Program countries are excluded.
- Zambia and Malawi are among the first countries to be affected.
- Bonds will be refunded if visitors leave the US as per visa terms.
