The State Department is preparing to introduce a pilot program that will mandate foreign nationals from particular countries applying for business or tourism visas to provide a bond of up to $15,000, as per a public notice scheduled for release on Tuesday.
The initiative outlines a 12-month 'visa bond pilot program' enabling consular officers to request visa bonds. These bonds may be enforced for travelers from countries identified by the State Department as having high rates of visa overstays or insufficient screening and vetting data.
The program, effective 15 days after official publication, will last until August 2026. While the covered countries are undisclosed, the State Department will reveal the list at least 15 days before implementation, along with reasons for bond requirements.
The move responds to President Trump's executive order to combat illegal immigration, directing action on visa bonds. Critics like Alex Nowrasteh from the Cato Institute argue that such measures will deter foreign travel to the U.S., impacting the tourism industry and trade deficit.
The State Department describes the pilot program as a diplomatic tool to inform future visa bond decisions and address national security priorities. It aims to encourage robust screening, vetting, and timely departures for visa overstays.
Countries with high visa overstay rates for B-1 and B-2 visas, excluding Visa Waiver Program participants, will be targeted. The bond amounts of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 could be required for eligible foreign nationals, subject to cancellation upon meeting specific criteria.
The potential negative impacts on U.S. tourism and international relations have sparked concerns from industry representatives and experts, criticizing the stringent nature of the bond requirement and its implications on travel accessibility.
Reference from News: State Department may require some travelers to post $15,000 bond for business or tourism visas