US makes visa bond program permanent, potentially requiring up to $20,000

Washington D.C. – The United States is permanently implementing a visa bond program that could require certain visitors to pay a substantial financial guarantee before entering the country for business or tourism. The policy, announced by the U.S. State Department, aims to curb the number of individuals who overstay their visas.

The program will affect selected applicants from 50 countries, with a significant portion of those nations located in Africa. While not every applicant will automatically face the requirement, U.S. consular officers will assess individual cases to determine if a visa bond is necessary. The bond, known as a refundable financial guarantee, can be as high as $20,000.

Officials state the primary objective is to decrease visa overstays, where visitors enter the U.S. legally but remain beyond their authorized stay. A pilot version of the program, tested in 2025, reportedly demonstrated that financial guarantees improved compliance among travelers. The pilot program allowed for bonds of $5,000, $10,000, and $15,000.

The new permanent system raises the maximum bond amount to $20,000 and removes the lowest option. The bond is intended to be refunded if the traveler adheres to all visa regulations, including departing the U.S. on time. However, the bond may be forfeited if the visitor overstays their visa or violates its conditions. The policy officially takes effect on August 3.