On Monday, the US Department of State (DOS) unveiled a new Temporary Final Rule, initiating a visa bond pilot program targeting specific B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourism) visa applicants from certain countries. This rule mandates that consular officers may require a bond ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 based on their assessment of an applicant's risk of overstaying their visa.

Set to take effect on August 20, 2025, and slated to run until August 5, 2026, the program aims to curb the number of visa overstays by creating a financial commitment to abide by visa conditions. The list of targeted countries will be publicly disclosed at least 15 days before the program's start, with potential updates throughout its duration.

For those required to post a bond, payment must be processed through Pay.Gov using the Department of Homeland Security Form I-352. The bond will be refunded if the visa holder complies with all terms, including departing the US within the visa's validity period. However, failure to adhere, such as overstaying, will result in the forfeiture of the bond. Additionally, the visas may be annotated by Customs and Border Protection, generally restricting stays to 30 days.

The pilot program is not just a regulatory measure but also a diplomatic tool intended to prompt governments of the selected countries to enhance their screening and compliance enforcement processes. This initiative will provide valuable insights into the operational aspects of managing such bonds, helping to determine the feasibility of future expansions.

Critics argue that the high bond requirements might pose an economic barrier that could deter genuine tourists and business travelers, potentially impacting the US tourism sector and international business engagements. The program, affecting an estimated 2,000 applicants, has raised concerns about its broader implications on travel and cultural exchange.

As the implementation date approaches, the DOS, along with the Departments of Homeland Security and Treasury, will closely monitor the effectiveness and adjust strategies as necessary to ensure the goals of the pilot are met without undue disruption.