The State Department’s initiative offers consular officials three options for visa applicants: bonds of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, with at least $10,000 generally expected to be required.
This move to implement bond requirements for visitors to the US comes amid the Trump administration’s efforts to crack down on undocumented immigration.
Key information about the new program
Under the program, consular officials will have the authority to require bonds from visitors from countries with high rates of visa overstays and from countries that do not provide adequate screening and verification information, as highlighted in the notice set to be published in the US Federal Register.
Scheduled to start on August 20 and lasting about a year, the program will pertain to B-1 or B-2 nonimmigrant visas. Those required to pay bonds must also enter and depart from the US through a selection of pre-designated airports.
“The pilot reaffirms the Trump Administration’s dedication to enforcing US immigration laws and safeguarding national security,” a State Department spokesperson told AFP.
Affected groups
While the notice does not specify which countries will be affected, it clarifies that the new rule will not apply to all countries. Travelers from countries in the Visa Waiver Program, eligible for visa-free travel for up to 90 days for business or tourism, will be exempt from bond requirements.
The program’s impact will be determined based on the countries listed once it is implemented, with the possibility of waiving the bond requirement depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant.
Travelers who abide by their visas’ terms will have their funds returned upon departure from the US.
Edited by: Srinivas Mazumdaru
