US introduces new visa bond rules for travelers, $15,000 bond for applicants

CONNECTICUT – The United States has expanded its visa‑bond program, adding 12 new countries whose citizens may now be required to pay a refundable bond of up to $15,000 when applying for B1/B2 visitor visas. The updated rule will take effect on April 2, 2026.

Purpose of the Policy

The visa‑bond requirement is designed to reduce visa overstays by short‑term visitors. The bond is fully refunded if the traveler follows all visa rules and returns home before the visa expires.

New Countries Added

The 12 newly added countries are:

Cambodia, Ethiopia, Georgia, Grenada, Lesotho, Mauritius, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nicaragua, Papua New Guinea, Seychelles, and Tunisia.

With this expansion, the total number of countries included in the visa‑bond program rises to 50.

How the Bond Works

• Applies to B1 (business) and B2 (tourism) visas
• Bond amounts range from $5,000 to $15,000
• Amount is decided by U.S. consular officers
• Refund is issued after the traveler departs on time and follows all visa conditions

Background

The visa‑bond program was created to discourage overstays and strengthen immigration control. U.S. officials say the policy helps ensure that visitors comply with the terms of their visas.