U.S. State Department Makes Visa Bond Program Permanent for Travelers from 50 Countries

The U.S. State Department has finalized a rule to make permanent a visa bond program, which could require applicants from 50 countries, primarily in Africa, to post bonds of up to $20,000 when seeking B1 and B2 visas for business and tourism. The final rule, scheduled for publication in the Federal Register and effective on August 3, 2026, aims to reduce visa overstays.