The Trump administration is expanding its visa bond policy, now requiring applicants from seven countries to post bonds when applying for B1/B2 nonimmigrant visas.
Why It Matters
The visa bond policy was first introduced in August as a way to reduce visa overstays among travelers from countries with high overstay rates, part of a broader immigration crackdown under the Trump administration.
The high cost of the visa bonds, ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, could create a significant financial barrier and limit who is able to apply.
What To Know
Nationals from seven African countries who are eligible for a B1/B2 visa will now be required to post a bond.
The countries from which visa applicants need to post a bond are:
- Mali
- Mauritania
- Sao Tome and Principe
- Tanzania
- The Gambia
- Malawi
- Zambia
The implementation dates vary, with Malawi and Zambia having been subject to the policy since August, while the remaining countries will see the requirement take effect on various dates in October.
The bond could either be $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, with the amount determined at the time of the visa interview.
The full visa bond will be refunded once the visa holder complies with all terms, such as leaving the U.S. within the designated time frame.
Applicants who have posted a visa bond are required to enter and exit the country from one of three designated airports:
- Boston Logan International Airport
- John F. Kennedy International Airport
- Washington Dulles International Airport
The visa bonds are part of a 12-month pilot program which is aimed at reducing visa overstays.
The Department of Homeland Security will refer cases where visa holders may have violated their bond to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for review.
Violations can include overstaying a visa, departing late, or applying for a change of status, including claiming asylum.
The State Department notes that payment of a bond does not guarantee a visa will be issued. Applicants should only post a visa bond after being directed to do so by a consular officer. Any bonds paid without direction will not be returned.
What People Are Saying
State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said in a news briefing in August: “This targeted common-sense measure reinforces the administration’s commitment to U.S. immigration law while deterring visa overstays.”
What Happens Next
The visa bonds will be implemented for the remaining five countries over the course of October. The pilot program will run until August 5, 2026.
