The US Department of State has introduced a visa bond requirement under the Immigration and Nationality Act to strengthen immigration compliance. The move targets high overstay rates tracked by the Department of Homeland Security across selected countries, marking a significant policy shift.
The visa bond is a refundable security deposit ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 for business (B1) and tourist (B2) visas. It is not a fee and gets returned if travellers leave the United States within their permitted stay period.
The bond amount is decided during the visa interview based on the applicant’s risk profile. A consular officer assesses overstay risk and travel history before determining whether a bond is required and how much needs to be deposited.
Paying the bond does not guarantee a visa. Applicants must first meet all eligibility criteria, after which a consular officer may ask them to deposit the bond as an added compliance measure during the process.
Nationals from 50 countries across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Eastern Europe, and Oceania fall under this rule. Countries include Bangladesh, Nepal, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Cambodia, Georgia and Venezuela, among others listed with specific rollout timelines.
Implementation timelines vary by country. While some nations are already covered, others such as Cambodia, Ethiopia and Georgia will come under the rule from April 2, 2026, reflecting a phased rollout under the pilot programme.
Applicants instructed to pay must submit Form I-352, known as the Immigration Bond and complete payment through the official Pay.gov platform. Authorities warn against third-party sites, as unofficial payments will neither be accepted nor refunded.
Visa bond holders must enter and exit the United States only through designated commercial airports, including preclearance locations. Travel via land borders, seaports, private aircraft or charter flights is not allowed, ensuring stricter monitoring of movement.
Travellers get the bond amount back if they leave the US within the allowed time, do not use the visa before it expires or are refused entry. If they overstay or try to change their status, the amount may be lost after review.
