US makes visa bond program permanent; Oman not on list

The United States has finalized its visa bond program, transforming a year-long pilot into a permanent policy. Effective August 3, the program empowers consular officers to demand a bond of up to $20,000 from certain business and tourist visa applicants. This measure currently targets nationals from 50 countries, including many in Africa, as well as Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. Notably, Oman and other Gulf Cooperation Council countries are not included in this list. The U.S. State Department stated that a review of the pilot program indicated its effectiveness in ensuring visitors comply with visa conditions and reducing overstays. During the pilot, bond amounts ranged from $5,000 to $15,000. The permanent program removes the $5,000 option and raises the maximum bond to $20,000. U.S. authorities have suggested that more countries could be added to the program in the future. However, immigration advocates have voiced concerns, arguing that the policy could discourage legitimate travel to the United States. The program specifically covers B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourist) visa applicants.

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If there are any basic standards of character required to hold elected office, Max Miller fails them. He should not serve in the House of Representatives.