US announces new $15,000 bond requirement for entry: Which countries are affected?
The United States has introduced a new measure that could impact access to the country for travelers from certain nations. Citizens from select countries will now need a B1 and B2 visa to enter the U.S. This change begins with two African countries, but could have broader implications worldwide.
A Bond as a Filter: The New Migration Strategy
The State Department announced a pilot program that will require travelers from Malawi and Zambia to provide a bond of up to $15,000 when applying for tourist or business visas. The goal is to reduce instances of people overstaying their visas in the U.S. Official spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated that this requirement will go into effect on August 20, citing high rates of visa overstays from these countries.
Those who abide by their visa terms will have their bond refunded, while those who exceed their allowed stay will forfeit the deposit.
More than a bond: a shift in visa policy
The pilot program will impact around 2,000 applicants initially, with an average bond set at $10,000. In addition to the bond requirement, the current administration has implemented other cost increases for visa procedures. These include a “visa integrity fee” of at least $250 for temporary permit holders and a new fee structure for asylum applications.
In 2024, the U.S. issued nearly 11 million non-immigrant visas. The new measures aim to discourage extended stays and strengthen visa screening processes, though they come at a higher financial cost for travelers seeking entry into the country.
