The government of the United States has introduced a security bond of up to $15,000 for visa applicants from 12 additional countries as part of stricter immigration measures under Donald Trump’s administration.
According to the U.S. Department of State, the requirement will apply mainly to applicants for B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourist) visas.
The bond amount will be set in three tiers, $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, depending on the decision made during the visa interview.
The newly added countries include:
The new requirement will take effect from April 2, bringing the total number of countries under the visa bond program to around 50, most of them from Africa.
U.S. officials say the program aims to prevent visa overstays and ensure that visitors leave the country before their authorized stay expires.
Authorities added that paying the bond does not guarantee visa approval. If an application is rejected or if the traveler complies with visa conditions and leaves on time, the bond amount will be refunded.
Since returning to power in January 2025, President Trump has accelerated policies aimed at tightening both legal and illegal immigration, including visa restrictions and expanded deportation measures.