The U.S. government has expanded a visa bond program that now applies to travelers from 12 more countries seeking business or tourist visas. Under the policy, some applicants for B1 and B2 visas may be required to post a $15,000 bond before traveling to the United States.
Officials said the measure is aimed at reducing visa overstays and strengthening compliance with immigration rules. The program now covers 50 countries in total, widening a policy that had already been in place for selected travelers.
The bond is not a visa fee. It is a financial guarantee tied to whether a visitor follows the terms of their stay. Travelers who leave on time or do not use the visa as planned can receive the money back. Those who violate the terms could lose the bond.
The change fits into a broader push for tighter immigration enforcement. For travelers and families, the added requirement could make U.S. visits much more expensive, especially for short trips tied to tourism, business meetings, or family events.
