The U.S. government has extended the list of countries whose citizens will need to post bonds of up to $15,000 when applying for visas. This initiative aims to curb illegal stays within the United States.
According to the Associated Press, the State Department has added 12 new nations to this requirement as of April 2, including Nicaragua, Georgia, Ethiopia, and Cambodia.
This policy is part of a program initiated under President Donald Trump's administration last year, mandating bond payments of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 based on the applicant's profile and the discretion of the consular officer.
With this expansion, the total number of countries affected rises to 50.
Cuba has been on this list since January 2026, alongside other countries such as Venezuela, Bangladesh, and Nigeria.
The State Department claims the program effectively reduces visa violations.
Data indicates that about 97% of nearly 1,000 individuals who posted these bonds did not overstay their visas in the U.S.
This policy primarily targets nations with high rates of visa overstays and is part of Washington's broader strategy to tighten immigration controls and diminish illegal entries.
Visa Bond Requirements for International Travelers
What is the purpose of the visa bond program?
The visa bond program is designed to discourage illegal stays in the U.S. by requiring applicants from certain countries to pay a bond that is forfeited if they overstay their visa.
Which countries were recently added to the visa bond list?
The countries newly added to the list include Nicaragua, Georgia, Ethiopia, and Cambodia, among others.
How effective has the visa bond program been?
According to the State Department, the program has been quite effective, with about 97% of individuals who paid the bond not overstaying their visas.