Summary
The U.S. State Department introduced a new program requiring travelers from some countries to post a visa bond of up to $15,000. This rule affects business and tourist visa applicants from countries with high rates of visa overstays, beginning August 20. The visa bond aims to ensure that visitors comply with their visa terms.
Key Facts
- The visa bond requirement applies to travelers from certain countries with high visa overstay rates.
- The bond amounts are set at $5,000, $10,000, and $15,000.
- About 2,000 visa applicants are expected to be affected.
- The program starts on August 20 and will last for 12 months as a trial.
- The visa bond will be refunded if the visitor follows the visa terms.
- Mexico, Canada, and countries in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program are not affected.
- The program was previously attempted in 2020 but not fully implemented due to COVID-19.
- Consular officers will decide bond amounts based on personal circumstances and can request waivers for certain cases.
