US to make controversial visa bond program permanent for 50 countries

The U.S. State Department is making a visa bond program permanent, potentially requiring applicants from 50 countries, predominantly in Africa, to post bonds of up to $20,000 for business and tourism visas. This policy, detailed in a federal notice, allows consular officers to demand these bonds as a condition for visa issuance.

The program, initially a pilot, has provided "sufficient data" to suggest it is an "effective tool for enforcing compliance among bonded visa holders," according to the notice. The final rule, effective August 3, eliminates a $5,000 bond option and increases the maximum to $20,000. Officials maintain the policy's goal is to curb visa overstays.

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Consular officers may require covered nonimmigrant visa applicants to post a bond of up to $20,000 as a condition of visa issuance, as determined by the consular officers.

However, immigration advocates contend that the program will deter legitimate travelers and create an unwelcoming environment. Rights advocates have criticized the measures, linking them to President Donald Trump's broader immigration policies, which they argue violate due process and encourage racial profiling.

While Trump has defended such measures as necessary for national security, critics argue that his administration is making legal immigration more difficult through increased fees and stringent vetting processes. The implementation of the visa bond program is seen by some as another barrier to entry for individuals seeking to visit or do business in the United States.

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The 2025 visa bond pilot... has provided sufficient data to suggest that a visa bond program is an effective tool for enforcing compliance among bonded visa holders.