US Visa Bond Program Goes Permanent, Hits 50 Countries with $20,000 Fee
The US State Department has made its B1/B2 Visa Bond Program permanent, requiring applicants from 50 countries to post bonds up to $20,000 as a condition of visitor visa issuance. The program aims to curb visa overstays and is set to take effect on August 3, 2026.
The list of affected countries includes 30 from Africa, with the remaining 20 from other parts of the world. Notably, India has been excluded due to its low overstay rate, which stands at approximately 3.83% according to the DHS Entry/Exit Overstay Report (FY2024).
The bond program was initially launched as a temporary final rule in August 2025 and has since been expanded to include more countries. The maximum bond amount for eligible B1/B2 visa applicants will be raised to $10,000, $15,000, or as high as $20,000, as determined by the consular officer.
Applicants who must post a bond will receive a full refund if they comply with America's immigration-related rules while in the country. Foreign nationals must also timely depart from the US or file for an extension of stay or change of status request to stay longer in the country.