U.S. State Department May Require $15,000 Visa Bond for Some Applicants
Proposed policy could affect thousands of visa seekers aiming to enter the United States
U.S. State Department May Require $15,000 Visa Bond for Some Applicants
In a controversial move, the U.S. State Department is reportedly considering a new rule that would require a refundable bond of up to $15,000 from certain visa applicants seeking temporary entry into the United States. The U.S. visa bond requirement would apply to individuals from countries with high rates of visa overstays.
The policy, still under internal review, aims to reduce the number of visitors who remain in the country after their visa has expired.
Who Would Be Affected?
While the final list of countries and visa categories has not been confirmed, initial reports suggest the bond would primarily target applicants from countries with frequent violations of visa terms. The bond would be refunded once the visitor returns to their home country within the allowed time frame.
State Department officials indicated that the U.S. visa bond requirement is part of broader efforts to tighten immigration control without outright denying visa issuance.
Public Reaction to the Visa Bond Proposal
Immigration advocates and legal experts have voiced concern that the bond may discriminate against low-income applicants and deter legitimate travelers such as students, tourists, and business professionals. Critics argue that such a high financial burden could restrict access to educational and cultural opportunities.
Supporters of the bond claim it could significantly reduce visa fraud and overstays, saving taxpayer resources in immigration enforcement.
