US Expands Visa Bonds to 38 Countries, Raises Costs and Scrutiny

The Trump administration has expanded its visa bond policy, adding 25 countries and bringing the total to 38 nations. The policy requires certain B1 and B2 visitor visa applicants to post refundable bonds of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, with the amount determined during consular interviews.

Implementation timeline and affected countries

The countries are primarily located in Africa, accounting for 24 of the total, as well as parts of Latin America and Asia.

The expanded requirements take effect on January 21, 2026, for newly added countries such as Venezuela, Cuba, Nigeria, Bangladesh, and Algeria. Venezuela’s inclusion follows increased scrutiny after the Maduro apprehension, while other additions reflect longstanding concerns over compliance and documentation standards.

The program was originally piloted in August 2025 with 13 countries, including Bhutan, Botswana, and Tanzania, and became effective for those nations on January 1, 2026.

Policy goals and rules

The visa bond initiative targets countries with historically high visa overstay rates, as well as weak document control systems.

Bonds are refunded if a visa is denied, if the traveler departs the US in compliance with visa terms, or if an extension is formally approved. Bonds are forfeited in cases of overstays or deportation.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the expansion as part of a broader immigration enforcement effort. The policy coincides with the increased scrutiny of applicants’ social media activity and expanded use of facial recognition technologies, signaling a more comprehensive approach to screening and compliance.

Photo by Caleb Fisher on Unsplash