New State Department Pilot Program
The U.S. State Department announced a 12‑month pilot program requiring some foreign visitors to post refundable bonds of up to $15,000. The initiative applies to travelers on business and tourist visas from countries with high visa overstay rates, as determined by Department of Homeland Security (DHS) data.
According to the program, visitors must deposit between $5,000 and $15,000 before entering the United States. Those who depart before their visas expire will receive a refund, while overstayers will forfeit the bond.
Criteria for Participating Countries
The State Department has not released a full list of affected countries. Eligibility will be based on:
- DHS overstay reports for air and sea entries
- Countries with limited or insufficient screening and vetting information
- Nations offering citizenship through investment or without residency requirements
Program Implementation and Logistics
- The rule will be officially published in the Federal Register and take effect 15 days later.
- Bonded travelers must enter and exit through designated U.S. airports, which will be announced in advance.
- U.S. consular officers will determine the exact bond amount for each applicant.
The program is designed to evaluate whether bond requirements can effectively reduce visa overstays and test the State Department’s prior assumption that such measures are impractical.
Background and Purpose
The State Department cited DHS data from 2023 indicating that over 500,000 people likely remained in the U.S. beyond their authorized stay. Consular officers already have the authority to impose bonds, but the policy has rarely been used.
This trial program revisits a similar plan considered during the first Trump administration, which was delayed due to the COVID‑19 pandemic’s impact on international travel.
Key Takeaways
- Bond Range: $5,000–$15,000, refundable upon timely departure
- Focus: Countries with high visa overstay rates and limited vetting
- Duration: 12‑month pilot program
- Effective Date: 15 days after Federal Register publication
The State Department will monitor the program’s effectiveness in reducing overstays and improving compliance with U.S. visa requirements.
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