Visa Overhaul: U.S. Pilots Bond Requirement for High-Risk Visitors

The U.S. government is set to introduce a pilot program that mandates bonds up to $15,000 for some tourist and business visas. This move, commencing on August 20, aims to deter visitors from overstaying. According to a Federal Register notice, the measure targets countries with high overstay rates and inadequate vetting processes.

This initiative, following President Donald Trump's focus on curbing illegal immigration, allows consular officers the discretion to impose the bonds. It comes amid a backdrop of Trump's travel bans and efforts to secure U.S. borders, which have already contributed to decreased travel figures from Canada and Mexico.

The pilot program, slated to last about a year, could affect roughly 2,000 applicants mainly from specific countries with low travel volumes to the U.S., according to the U.S. Travel Association. Additionally, a new $250 'visa integrity fee' will be implemented October 1, potentially making U.S. visitor visas among the most expensive globally.

(With inputs from agencies.)