Permanent Visa Bond Program for B-1 and B-2 Applicants

Final rules published August 3, 2026 permanently formalize a Visa Bond Program for B-1/B-2 visa applicants. The program, initially piloted in 2025, authorizes consular officers to require a bond up to $20,000 from nonimmigrant travelers from a list of roughly 50 countries identified as having higher overstay risk or weaker information sharing. The bond is intended to ensure departure at the end of the authorized stay and to deter misuse of tourist or business visas. For travelers, this introduces a new upfront cost and administrative step at the visa interview, as well as potential delays while the bond is posted and later reimbursed if requirements are met. For U.S. officials, the program is presented as a diplomatic tool to incentivize partner countries to strengthen screening, identity verification, and risk management in visa processing. The rule is already in effect and will be updated as the covered countries change; travelers should check the State Department’s notices before applying. Practically, families and business travelers should plan for possible bond amounts and consult counsel about eligibility and bond posting mechanics, including refund conditions. Visa sponsors and travel agencies should prepare compliance checks for clients who may be affected. The permanent rule could affect tourism, family visits, and short-term business trips by increasing friction in the visa process. Readers are advised to watch for country lists and bond procedures published by the State Department and to seek guidance on travel planning and budgeting for potential bonds.