U.S. Visa Bond Program: Cracking Down on Overstays

The United States is set to introduce a pilot program requiring some tourists and business travelers to deposit bonds of up to $15,000 with the aim of reducing visa overstays. The U.S. government disclosed this plan in a notice released on Monday, stating it will commence in two weeks.

This initiative grants consular officials the authority to impose bonds on travelers from countries known for high rates of visa overstays. Moreover, the rule extends to nations where information for vetting and screening is considered inadequate, as highlighted in a Federal Register notice.

President Donald Trump, who has prioritized strict immigration measures during his tenure, spearheaded similar initiatives. This pilot program, which will commence on August 20 and last for approximately a year, echoes an earlier effort launched in late 2020 that was impeded by the global travel downturn during the COVID-19 pandemic.