Overview

• The pilot program begins August 20 and will last one year, initially applying to B-1 and B-2 visa applicants from Malawi and Zambia.
• Consular officers may require bonds of $5,000, $10,000 or $15,000 based on each applicant’s perceived overstay risk.
• Funds will be fully refunded for travelers who depart by their visa expiration dates and forfeited for overstays.
• Nationals of Visa Waiver Program countries are excluded and additional countries will be designated before the program launches.
• The bond requirement complements a new $250 visa integrity fee and aims to strengthen immigration enforcement and prompt foreign governments to improve vetting.