Up to $15,000 bond for tourist visas to the U.S.

06-08-25

Starting August 20, 2025, the United States will launch a one-year pilot program requiring some applicants for B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourism) visas to pay a refundable deposit of up to $15,000 as a condition for entry.

The measure targets travelers from countries deemed to pose a “high migration risk,” identified by elevated rates of visa overstays and weak documentation verification systems. In its initial phase, the policy will primarily affect citizens of Zambia and Malawi, although the list may be expanded. The U.S. Department of State is expected to publish any updates at least 15 days before the program's implementation.

The deposit amount — set at $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 — will be determined by consular officers based on individual evaluations of each applicant, taking into account their nationality, risk of non-compliance, and economic situation. It is expected that the most common bond will be around $10,000, though exceptions or waivers may apply depending on each case.