What’s Happening?

Beginning August 20, 2025, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) will implement a 12-month Visa Bond Pilot Program targeting certain applicants for B-1/B-2 nonimmigrant visas. Under this program, nationals of designated countries may be required to post a bond of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 as a condition of visa issuance. According to DOS, this program aims to test the effectiveness of visa bonds as a tool for reducing overstays and supporting national security. The pilot will run through August 5, 2026, and is expected to impact approximately 2,000 applicants. Future updates may expand the list of affected countries.