Understanding the Visa Bond Pilot Program: What B-1/B-2 Travelers Need to Know

A New Layer of Scrutiny for Certain Visa Applicants

Starting August 20, 2025, a new pilot program from the U.S. Department of State (DOS) introduces an additional requirement for select B-1/B-2 visa applicants: a visa bond of up to $15,000, aimed at ensuring timely departure from the U.S. This 12-month initiative, ending August 5, 2026, is part of a broader effort to test whether financial guarantees can reduce visa overstays and encourage better vetting by foreign governments.

While this is not a sweeping change for all travelers, it introduces significant implications for applicants from countries identified by the U.S. as having high overstay rates, limited identity verification standards, or citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programs that raise traceability concerns.

Quick Facts About the Pilot

• Bond amounts: $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, with $10,000 as the default in most cases.
  
• Eligible applicants: Certain B-1/B-2 visa seekers from countries to be announced at least 15 days before implementation.
  
• How it works: If a bond is required, the applicant is notified during their visa interview and must submit payment through Pay.Gov using Form I-352.
  
• Limited visas: Visas issued under this program will typically be single-entry, valid for three months, and may include restrictions such as entry through specific airports and limited authorized stay (e.g., 30 days).
  
• Refunds or forfeiture: Bonds are refundable if the applicant complies with the terms; otherwise, they may be forfeited.
  

Legal and Policy Backdrop

The program leverages section 221(g)(3) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which has long allowed for departure bonds but has rarely been used. The current pilot marks a shift in posture—driven in part by Executive Order 14159, which calls for a formal system to administer immigration bonds as a national security tool.

Historically, the Foreign Affairs Manual discouraged frequent use of such bonds, but the relevant section is now marked “Reserved,” reflecting this new experimental approach.

Who Might Be Affected?

The DOS will periodically publish a list of countries whose nationals are subject to the bond requirement. Selection criteria include:

• Data from DHS on high overstay rates.
  
• Screening or verification concerns.
  
• Nationals of CBI countries that issue passports without requiring residence.
  

These announcements will appear on Travel.State.Gov, offering consular officers and applicants a short window to prepare.

What the Process Looks Like

If a consular officer decides a bond is warranted:

1. The applicant is notified at their visa interview.
   
2. They have 30 days to submit Form I-352 and post the bond via Pay.Gov.
   
3. If paid on time, the visa may be issued—with special notations reflecting the bond and travel restrictions.
   
4. CBP officers at U.S. ports of entry will be notified and may limit the stay to 30 days.
   
5. If the traveler fails to depart or violates terms, the bond is forfeited.
   

Key Takeaways for Immigration Lawyers and Applicants

This pilot introduces real practical challenges:

• Client intake & screening: Immigration professionals should assess whether a bond might be triggered based on nationality and travel purpose.
  
• Financial readiness: Clients need access to sufficient funds (or sponsors) to post the bond quickly if required.
  
• Strategic planning: Travel itineraries may need to align with the program’s requirements on entry ports and visa validity.
  
• Supporting documentation: Demonstrating strong ties to the home country (employment, education, family, etc.) could influence the bond amount or even secure a waiver.
  
• Waiver opportunities: In cases involving national interest or humanitarian need, there may be avenues to request a waiver from the Department of State’s Visa Services leadership.
  

What’s the Broader Goal?

The Visa Bond Pilot isn’t just about individual compliance. It’s also meant to gather data on:

• Administrative burden on agencies and applicants.
  
• Effectiveness in reducing overstays.
  
• Diplomatic impact—whether naming countries or imposing bonds encourages improved screening abroad.
  

Ultimately, the pilot could inform a permanent policy shift in how the U.S. enforces visa compliance for short-term travelers.

Final Thoughts

While this is currently a limited-duration program, it signals a potential new direction in U.S. visa policy—one that places financial responsibility on travelers to ensure adherence to immigration rules.

Travelers from affected countries, as well as the professionals who assist them, will need to stay alert to implementation announcements and adapt accordingly. Whether this bond system becomes a long-term tool remains to be seen, but for now, careful planning and informed guidance are critical.

If you or your clients are affected by the Visa Bond Pilot Program, it’s essential to have experienced legal counsel on your side. John W. Lawit, Esq., brings over 45 years of immigration law experience, guiding individuals and businesses through complex visa challenges with clarity and confidence. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and ensure you’re fully prepared for what this pilot program may require.