United States mulls implementing visa bonds worth up to $15,000 for applicants hailing from high-risk nations.
The U.S. State Department has announced a new Visa Bond Pilot Program, scheduled to run from August 20, 2025, to August 5, 2026. The program will affect certain applicants for B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourism) visas from specific countries, with the initial countries named as Malawi and Zambia [1][3].
The program aims to reduce visa overstays and strengthen border security as part of broader immigration enforcement efforts. It is authorized under Section 221(g)(3) of the Immigration and Nationality Act and is consistent with Executive Order 141598, signed by President Trump [1][2][4].
Under the program, consular officers will require bonds of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, determined at the time of the visa interview based on applicant circumstances such as risk of overstay or visa condition compliance [1][2][4]. The bond amount aims to ensure the visa holders depart the U.S. on time or lawfully adjust their status [2][4].
Visas under the pilot are valid for a single entry with a three-month validity period, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) generally permits admission for a maximum of 30 days for these visa holders, although some exceptions can apply [1][4].
The bond is forfeited if the traveler violates visa conditions by overstaying without proper authorization, filing "unexcused untimely" applications for extension or change of status, or failing to depart within 10 days after denial of such applications [2][1]. The full bond is returned if the individual complies with visa terms by departing before the authorized stay ends or by timely filing and approval of extensions or status changes, followed by timely departure upon expiration or denial [1][2][4].
The program represents a revival and refinement of a similar program from 2020, initially delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic [2][3]. Additional countries with high visa overstay rates or deficient screening/vetting information may be added, with announcements made at least 15 days before the program applies to them [3][5].
Greg Wehner, a breaking news reporter for our website Digital, is reporting on this development. For story tips and ideas, you can send an email to [email protected] or connect with him on Twitter @GregWehner.
The Visa Bond Pilot is being reported on by The Associated Press and is a policy initiative led by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The list of countries affected by the Visa Bond Pilot may be updated from time-to-time. The program will not take effect within 15 days of its publication.
[1] U.S. Department of State, "Visa Bond Pilot Program," Federal Register, 2025. [2] The Associated Press, "U.S. to require visa bonds for some travelers from Malawi, Zambia," 2025. [3] U.S. Department of State, "Visa Bond Pilot Program Frequently Asked Questions," 2025. [4] U.S. Department of Homeland Security, "FY 2023 Overstay Report," 2024. [5] U.S. Department of State, "Visa Bond Pilot Program: Additional Countries to be Announced," 2025.
- The Visa Bond Pilot Program, under the leadership of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, is a policy initiative aimed at reducing visa overstays and strengthening border security, affecting certain applicants for B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourism) visas, including those from Malawi and Zambia.
- Breaking news reports, such as the one from Greg Wehner at Digital, indicate that the Visa Bond Pilot Program, which involves the posting of a bond for certain travelers, is a revival and refinement of a similar program from 2020, with additional countries potentially being added in the future.
