The United States has announced a new visa bond requirement aimed at reducing the number of visa overstays. Beginning August 20, some travelers applying for B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourist) visas may be required to pay a refundable visa bond of up to $15,000.

This policy is part of a 12-month pilot program introduced by the U.S. State Department. It targets applicants from countries with high visa overstay rates, as identified in a 2023 report by the Department of Homeland Security. The specific countries affected have not yet been named.

The visa bond will act as a financial guarantee. If the traveler leaves the United States before their visa expires, the full amount will be refunded. However, if they overstay, the bond will be forfeited.

In addition to paying the bond, travelers under this program must enter and exit the United States through designated airports. The State Department describes this measure as a way to support national security and ensure better compliance with visa rules.

The new visa bond policy is part of the Trump administration’s broader efforts to strengthen immigration enforcement and reduce the risk of overstays.

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