The U.S. State Department is making its visa bond program permanent and increasing the maximum bond amount to $20,000, according to a draft notice published in the Federal Register.
The policy is intended to reduce visa overstays and is expected to take effect officially on Monday.
According to the report, the Trump administration introduced the program last August as part of its broader effort to curb illegal immigration.
The review of the pilot program concluded that it improved compliance, with officials reporting a sharp decline in visa issuances and fewer than 50 recorded overstays among participants.
The report said nearly 45,500 visitors from the 50 countries covered by the program overstayed their visas in 2024.
Critics argue the policy places a significant financial burden on travelers from lower-income nations, particularly those seeking to visit relatives or conduct legitimate business in the United States.
Related Tweet:
US locks in visa bonds of up to$25,700 for travellers from 50 countries https://t.co/hhV5zNbPv7
— The Straits Times (@straits_times) August 1, 2026
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TIPP Staff
