Visa Bonds: $15K Deposit to Prove You'll Leave America
Published Date: 8/5/2025
Rule
Summary
The Department of State is launching a 12-month pilot program where some travelers applying for B-1/B-2 visas from certain countries might need to pay a bond up to $15,000. This applies to visitors from places with high visa overstays or special citizenship rules. The goal? To make sure folks follow visa rules and keep travel safe and fair.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Visa Bond Pilot: Up to $15,000
If you apply for a B-1/B-2 (business or pleasure) visa and are a national of a country the Department identifies for high overstay rates, deficient screening, or Citizenship by Investment with no residency requirement, a consular officer may require you to post a bond of up to $15,000 as a condition of getting the visa. This requirement is part of a 12-month pilot program.
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