Department of State Finalizes Permanent Visa Bond Program

The U.S. Department of State has issued a final rule to establish a permanent Visa Bond Program, effective August 3, 2026. This program will allow consular officers to require a bond of up to $20,000 from certain nonimmigrant visa applicants (B-1/B-2 temporary visitors for business or pleasure) to ensure they maintain their nonimmigrant status and depart the United States as required. The final rule follows a 12-month pilot program that provided sufficient data to suggest the program's effectiveness in enforcing compliance among bonded visa holders.