Visa Bonds Up To $20,000 Are Set To Stay: These 50 Countries Are Impacted
Summary
The U.S. government will make permanent a program requiring certain visa applicants from 50 countries to pay bonds up to $20,000. This program is designed to discourage people from staying in the U.S. longer than their visas allow.Key Facts
- The Visa Bond Pilot Program started under President Donald Trump’s administration in August last year.
- Visa applicants from 50 countries, mostly in Africa, must post refundable bonds of $10,000, $15,000, or $20,000.
- The bond amount depends on the traveler’s personal situation and is aimed at ensuring they leave the U.S. on time.
- The bond program’s amounts have increased from $5,000–$15,000 in the pilot phase to $10,000–$20,000 permanently.
- The 50 countries affected accounted for over 45,000 visa overstays in the 2024 financial year.
- Visa issuance to these countries dropped 83% compared to the previous year, partly due to applicants not paying the bond.
- The bond is refundable if the visa holder follows visa rules and leaves the U.S. on time or does not travel.
- The list of countries may change over time, with affected countries getting advance notice.
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