The State Department makes visa bond pilot program permanent for 50 countries, increasing maximum bond to $20,000
The State Department is making the visa bond pilot program permanent for citizens from 50 countries, primarily in Africa, as well as Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. The administration announced that the program, which requires applicants from these nations to post a bond for B1 and B2 visas, will now have a maximum bond amount of $20,000, up from the previous $15,000. This initiative was launched by the administration to curb visa overstays and reduce illegal immigration. Government officials noted that the pilot program was successful, as overstays from the covered countries dropped from nearly 45,500 in 2024 to fewer than 50 in the first 10 months of the program. While critics argue the bond imposes a heavy burden on people from lower-income countries, the administration noted that the bond is refunded if the visa is granted and the terms are followed. The final rule will contribute to a continued reduction in demand for business and tourist visas from the nations listed.