The U.S. implements visa bonds starting in 2026 for B1/B2 applicants from certain countries
The U.S. will require visa bonds of up to $15,000 for B1/B2 applicants from countries with high overstay rates.
The United States Department of State announced the launch of a pilot “visa bonds” program that will be applied in phases in 2026, depending on the applicant’s country of nationality. This measure aims to reduce B1/B2 (tourism and business) visa overstay rates identified by the Department of Homeland Security.
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The requirement applies only to citizens of designated countries who are outside the United States, apply for a B1/B2 visa, and who, after the consular interview, are found eligible for the visa but subject to an additional bond. Among the affected countries are, among others, Cuba, Venezuela, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Angola, Benin, Burundi, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Ivory Coast, Dominica, Gabon, Gambia, Guinea, Malawi, Nepal, Senegal, Tanzania, Turkmenistan, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The bond may be $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, as determined by the consular officer, and must only be paid when expressly indicated by the consulate, through Form I-352 and the official Pay.gov platform.
Payment of the visa bond does not guarantee visa approval. The bond is refunded only if the traveler complies with the terms of their status, such as leaving the United States on time, not traveling if the visa expires, or if entry is denied at the port. Noncompliance —for example, remaining beyond the authorized period or attempting to adjust status— may result in forfeiture of the bond and additional reviews by USCIS. In addition, those subject to visa bonds must enter and exit the country exclusively through ports of entry designated by the United States Government.
Do you want to understand how this requirement may affect a visa application?
If you want to understand your immigration process, learn how requirements work for different types of visas, or learn how to correctly complete immigration forms, Paralegal Institute of the Americas offers educational programs designed to provide you with clear, practical, and structured information.
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This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice.
From: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/countries-subject-to-visa-bonds.html
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