Citizens of certain countries planning to enter the territory of the United States will now face a new financial requirement when applying for a visa. According to Reuters, citing the State Department, guests arriving from specific countries may be asked to pay a bond ranging from $5,000 to $15,000.
This requirement is primarily aimed at preventing tourists who overstay their visa period. In other words, the US government is implementing this pilot program as a measure against visa violators.
What are the details?
It is noted that the new program will come into force on August 20, 2025, and will remain in effect for approximately one year. This initiative grants US consular officers the right to collect a bond from applicants arriving from certain countries. If a candidate is deemed likely to overstay their visa, a financial guarantee may be requested.
In addition, the requirement may also apply to those coming from countries where background checks, data provision, or screening processes are considered insufficient.
What amount of bond will be required?
According to the new procedure, candidates will be offered three bond amounts: $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000. However, available information suggests that in most cases, a minimum of $10,000 is expected to be required. This amount will be temporarily held and returned in full if the traveler complies with all visa terms and returns home on time.
Has such a program existed before?
It is worth noting that a similar mechanism had already existed. In November 2020, during the final months of the Trump administration, a comparable system was introduced. However, due to the drastic reduction in international travel during the pandemic, the program was not fully implemented.
Visa fee to be introduced as well
Furthermore, in line with a new measure approved by the US Congress in July, all non-immigrant visa applicants will be required to pay a special fee of $250. Interestingly, this amount may be refunded later to those who fully comply with visa regulations. The fee will come into effect on October 1.
In conclusion
The new requirements for obtaining a US visa carry significant importance not only financially, but also in terms of responsibility. Those planning to travel to the US for tourism or business purposes are advised to familiarize themselves with these new conditions in advance and be prepared.
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