US State Department Introduces Visa Bond Pilot Program for Foreign Nationals

The US State Department is launching a new pilot program aimed at enhancing visa regulations for foreign nationals applying for business or tourist visas. This initiative may require applicants to submit a bond ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 to gain entry into the United States, as detailed in a preview of an upcoming bond notice posted on the Federal Register.

This "visa bond pilot program" is designed to be in effect for a duration of 12 months, allowing consular officers the discretion to demand bonds of varying amounts based on the applicant's background. The program is set to start 15 days following its official publication. The bonds will likely target individuals from specific nations flagged for high visa overstay incidents or noted for lacking thorough screening and vetting procedures.

Although the announcement does not specify which countries will be impacted by these bond requirements, it mentions that the relevant list will be made publicly available at least 15 days prior to the program's commencement. This proposal aligns with ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to impose stricter measures on visa applications, such as the recent requirement for additional in-person interviews for many visa renewal candidates, which was a departure from previous practices.