The US government, under the Trump administration, has introduced a new rule where some tourists and business travelers may have to pay up to $15,000 as a bond to get a visa.
This change is part of a new pilot program launched by the US State Department. It aims to reduce the number of people who overstay their visas after entering the US. The rule mainly targets visitors from countries that have a high rate of visa overstays.
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Who Will Be Affected?
People applying for B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourism) visas from certain countries may be asked to pay this bond before getting their visa. The list of countries affected will be shared at least 15 days before the program begins.
The rule applies to countries that:
- Have high visa overstay rates,
- Lack proper background screening systems,
- Or offer Citizenship by Investment without requiring people to live there.
How Does the Bond Work?
US consular officers will decide if a person needs to pay the bond. The bond can be up to $15,000 and is meant to make sure the visitor leaves the US on time. If they follow the rules and leave as required, the money will be returned.
This rule is temporary and will run as a test for one year to see if it helps reduce visa overstays.
