Visa Bond Program for Certain B-1 / B-2 Visitors

The Start Department has introduced a new visa bond program under a Temporary Final Rule. The rule will require some noncitizens applying under certain visa categories to provide a refundable bond. The goal of the bond program is to ensure compliance with the visa terms and departure from the United States at the end of their authorized stay. Currently, the visa bond applies to those seeking to obtain a B-1/B-2 business and tourism visa. As of August 20, 2025, the program is limited to foreign nationals from Malawi and Zambia. However, it will apply to Gambian nationals as of October 11, 2025 and will likely be expanded in the future. If the foreign national overstays their visa, or violates their status, the foreign national will forfeit the bond. If the program proves successful, it is likely the administration will expand the program to other nonimmigrant visa categories such as H-1B and F-1. The program will likely affect the ability of many foreign nationals to obtain visitor visas and enter the United States.