The US State Department plans a pilot program requiring up to $15,000 bonds for certain tourist and business visas from countries with high overstay rates. This 12-month initiative, restarting a Trump-era proposal, aims to assess the feasibility of visa bonds in ensuring timely departures. The program, starting August 5th, will initially affect an estimated 2,000 applicants, with affected countries announced 15 days prior. Bonds will be refunded upon departure, naturalization, or death. The policy comes amidst declining US tourism and concerns over visa processing.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.