Department of State Announces New Visa Bond Pilot Program for B-1/B-2 Applicants from Select Countries

Effective August 20, 2025, nationals of Malawi and Zambia applying for B-1/B-2 visitor visas will be subject to a new visa bond requirement, as part of a pilot program announced by the U.S. Department of State. Additional countries may be added to the program, with each new designation announced at least 15 days in advance.

Under this program, designated applicants will be required to post a “Maintenance of Status and Departure Bond” in the amount of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, at the discretion of the Consular Officer. This bond must be paid before the visa can be issued. The visa bond will be returned to the applicant if the visa holder substantially complies with the terms and conditions of their visa, including timely departure and maintaining proper status during their stay in the United States.

The Department of State has not yet released full guidance on how the program will be administered. Key questions remain, including the procedures for posting the bond, timelines for return or forfeiture, and the complete list of countries that may be included.

For further information, please visit: Federal Register : Visas: Visa Bond Pilot Program

Our office is closely monitoring this development and will provide updates as further guidance becomes available. If you have questions about how this program may affect your visa application or international travel plans, please contact our office.