The U.S. government has expanded its immigration control measures by adding 12 more countries to its “visa bond” program, requiring applicants from these nations to deposit up to $15,000 when applying for certain nonimmigrant visas.
According to the U.S. Department of State, the new policy will take effect on April 2, bringing the total number of affected countries to 50.
Newly Added Countries
The 12 newly added countries include:
Cambodia, Ethiopia, Georgia, Grenada, Lesotho, Mauritius, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nicaragua, Papua New Guinea, Seychelles, and Tunisia.
How the Visa Bond Program Works
The program applies mainly to short-term visas such as B1/B2 (business and tourism). Applicants may be required to deposit between $5,000 and $15,000, depending on the consular officer’s assessment.
The bond will be refunded if:
- The applicant leaves the U.S. on time
- Or the visa application is denied
If the visa holder overstays, the deposit will be forfeited.
Policy Objective
The primary goal is to reduce visa overstays, a key concern in U.S. immigration enforcement.
Initial data shows:
- Nearly 1,000 visas have been issued under the program
- Around 97% of participants complied with departure requirements
Broader Context
This expansion is part of a broader tightening of immigration policies under the Trump administration, focusing on stricter screening and enforcement.
Key Takeaway
The visa bond program reflects a shift in U.S. immigration policy toward:
- Stronger entry controls
- Financial accountability for applicants
- Risk-based visa screening
Applicants should be prepared not only with documentation but also with clear intent and compliance history.
