US finalizes visa bond program aimed at reducing overstays

The Trump administration is making permanent a visa bond requirement that could compel certain foreign visitors to put down thousands of dollars before entering the United States.

Under a State Department rule taking effect Aug. 3, consular officers will have the authority to require applicants from 50 countries, most of them in Africa, to post refundable bonds of as much as $20,000 when applying for B-1 business or B-2 tourist visas. The policy is intended to discourage travelers from remaining in the United States after their visas expire.

The permanent rule follows a pilot program launched in 2025. It raises the maximum bond amount from $15,000 to $20,000 and eliminates the previous $5,000 minimum bond option, Reuters reported.

Administration officials have argued that the bond requirement is an effective way to reduce visa overstays and strengthen immigration enforcement. Critics, however, contend the policy could make it prohibitively expensive for many legitimate travelers, particularly those seeking to visit family members, attend business meetings, or travel for tourism.

The visa bond is refundable if travelers comply with the terms of their visas and depart the United States as required.