Beginning Aug. 20, 2025, the United States will launch a year-long pilot program that allows consular officers to require refundable cash bonds of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 from certain business and leisure travelers seeking B-1/B-2 visas. The measure, published in the Federal Register, is designed to “encourage their nationals to comply with U.S. immigration law” by deterring short-term visitors from overstaying.
Who will be asked to pay
Only citizens of countries the State Department labels high-risk — because of double-digit overstay rates, weak identity-verification systems, or citizenship-by-investment passports — can be tapped for a bond, and then only at a consular officer’s discretion. A formal country list will be posted on Travel.State.gov at least 15 days before the rule takes effect and can change “on a rolling basis.” Visa Waiver Program nations such as Canada, Japan, and most of Europe are exempt.
How the bond works
Travelers must post the bond via Pay.gov within 30 days after the interview; otherwise, the visa is refused.
Visas issued with a bond are single-entry, valid for three months, and carry a 30-day limit of stay.
Compliance triggers a full refund; any overstay leads to forfeiture of the entire amount.
Why it matters to U.S. travelers
Fewer foreign guests, softer demand. Travel-industry analysts warn that tying up $10,000-plus could discourage tour groups, shoppers, and family visitors, especially from developing nations. A dip in arrivals may translate into lower hotel occupancy and lighter crowds at attractions in gateway cities.
Economic ripple effect. International visitors spent more than $213 billion in the U.S. last year, supporting roughly one million American jobs, according to the Commerce Department. Even a single-digit percentage drop from targeted regions could be felt by airlines, restaurant,s and retailers.
Reciprocity risk. Some countries may impose similar financial hurdles on Americans. Frequent U.S. travelers to Africa or parts of Asia should watch embassy advisories for any “mirror” bond policies.
Airport processing. The program requires bonded travelers to arrive and depart through specific airports so DHS can verify exits, a move that could add screening steps — or separate queues — at major international hubs.
A policy with history
The bond concept was floated in 2020 but paused during the pandemic. The revived version is broader and twice as long, running until Aug. 5, 2026. During the trial, the State Department and Homeland Security will study whether financial stakes reduce overstays enough to justify permanent adoption.
Looking ahead
For now, American vacationers and business travelers are unlikely to feel direct effects, but destinations that rely on long-haul tourism — from Orlando outlet malls to West Coast national parks — could see shifts in visitor mix and pricing. U.S. travel executives will be tracking whether the bond requirement curbs overstays without chilling the very tourism dollars that fuel local economies.
