The United States State Department has announced a 12-month visa bond pilot program set to begin on August 20, 2025, aimed at curbing visa overstays.
Under the initiative, certain visa applicants may be required to post a bond of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, depending on consular evaluation. The amount will be determined based on the applicant’s risk profile, including factors such as likelihood of overstaying, country of origin, and travel history.
The program targets countries with:
High rates of visa overstays,
Weak screening or vetting processes, or
Citizenship-by-investment schemes that do not require residency.
This policy comes shortly after the U.S. Embassy issued a warning to international students, stressing stricter enforcement of visa conditions and warning that violations could lead to revocation.
The pilot aims to enhance accountability and reduce immigration violations by adding a financial incentive for compliance.
