United States Adds 12 Countries to Visa Bond Program
Travelers from 12 additional countries may now be required to post up to $15,000 in cash bonds to enter the U.S., creating a massive financial hurdle for short-term visits.
United States Adds 12 Countries to Visa Bond Program
The U.S. State Department is expanding its visa bond pilot program to include 12 additional nations starting April 2, 2026. This initiative, designed to curb visa overstays, requires certain travelers to post a refundable cash bond before receiving a visitor visa. With this latest update, the total number of countries subject to the requirement has reached 50.
How the bond works
The program specifically targets B-1/B-2 visitor visas for tourism, business, or family visits. If a consular officer determines a bond is necessary, the applicant must pay $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 via the official Pay.gov platform. The specific amount depends on the individual's risk profile and financial situation.
The bond is fully refundable if the traveler departs the U.S. on time or is denied entry at the border. However, those holding these visas must follow strict travel rules. You are required to enter and exit through designated commercial air ports of entry only. Entry via land borders, sea ports, or private aviation is not permitted under the bond terms.
Who is affected
The newest additions to the list include Cambodia, Ethiopia, Georgia, Grenada, Lesotho, Mauritius, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nicaragua, Papua New Guinea, Seychelles, and Tunisia.
Digital nomads and expats from these countries are primarily impacted when applying for standard visitor visas to the U.S. for short-term stays. The rule does not apply to student visas (F-1), specialized work visas (H-1B), or travelers using the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA).
Next steps for travelers
If you are a national of one of the listed countries, do not pay a bond upfront. You should only submit Form I-352 and payment after a consular officer specifically directs you to do so during your interview. Keep in mind that paying the bond does not guarantee your visa will be approved. Check the latest nomad news to stay updated on further expansions to this list.
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