US Visa Bond Requirements Explained: Countries Affected, Costs, and Compliance Rules

As part of a new immigration enforcement pilot, the United States has begun requiring a U.S. Visa Bond from travelers of certain countries applying for B-1/B-2 visitor visas. The policy, introduced quietly but with wide implications, is designed to address visa overstay concerns and will affect thousands of applicants over the coming year.

The requirement falls under Section 221(g)(3) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and is being tested through a Temporary Final Rule (TFR). While the bond does not prevent travel, it adds a significant financial and procedural step for eligible applicants.

What Is a US Visa Bond?

A US Visa Bond is a refundable security deposit that some B-1/B-2 visa applicants must post before traveling to the United States. The bond is intended to encourage compliance with visa terms, particularly timely departure from the country.

Important to remember is that posting a bond does not guarantee visa approval. It is only required after a consular officer determines that the applicant is otherwise eligible for a visa, but must comply with the bond condition.

Countries Subject to the Visa Bond Requirement

The Department of State has identified the following countries as part of the visa bond pilot program. The dates listed indicate when the requirement takes effect for each country.

Visa overstay risk assessments used to select these countries are based on the Department of Homeland Security’s B-1/B-2 overstay data.

How Much Is the US Visa Bond?

Applicants may be required to post a bond of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, depending on the consular officer’s assessment during the visa interview. The bond amount is decided on a case-by-case basis and communicated directly by the officer.

Once instructed, applicants must submit Form I-352 and pay the bond only through Pay.gov, the U.S. Treasury’s official payment platform. Payments made through third-party websites are not recognized, and the U.S. government will not recover funds sent outside its systems.

Applicants should not submit Form I-352 or attempt payment unless explicitly directed to do so. Paying fees prematurely will result in no refund, even if the visa is later denied.

Required Ports of Entry and Exit

As a condition of the US Visa Bond, travelers must enter and leave the United States through specific airports. Failure to comply could result in denied entry or an unrecorded departure, which may trigger bond forfeiture.

The designated ports of entry are:

• Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
• Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Travelers should plan their itineraries carefully to ensure compliance.

If Visa Bond Terms Are Violated?

The Department of Homeland Security monitors compliance closely. If a traveler is suspected of violating bond conditions, the case is referred to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for review.

Situations that may result in a bond breach include overstaying the authorized period, failing to depart the United States, or applying to adjust status, including filing for asylum. If a breach is confirmed, the bond may be forfeited.

Timeline of the Pilot Program

The visa bond pilot was announced in August and will run for 12 months, beginning on August 20, 2025, and ending on August 5, 2026. During this period, there will be no waiver process, meaning applicants must either comply with the bond requirement or forgo travel.

Furthermore, as with many pilot programs, the policy may be expanded, revised, or discontinued depending on its effectiveness.