US Makes Visa Bond Program Permanent, Raising Fees to $20,000

The final rule, published in the Federal Register, grants consular officers the authority to demand bonds as a condition for issuing B-1 and B-2 visas. This shift follows a year-long review that officials claim demonstrates the program's effectiveness in ensuring travel compliance. The new framework removes the previous $5,000 minimum, leaving officers to set amounts up to the $20,000 ceiling based on their assessment of individual applicants.

Of the 50 countries currently subject to the mandate, 30 are located in Africa, with Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan also included. US officials maintain that the policy serves as a necessary tool to curb visa overstays and strengthen national security. Conversely, immigration advocates warn that the steep financial barrier may deter legitimate business and tourism travel. Critics further suggest the measure aligns with broader efforts to restrict legal immigration pathways, raising concerns regarding the potential for racial profiling and the erosion of due process for international travelers.