Islamabad, Aug 5, 2025: The US visa new rules are set to introduce a significant change for travelers, reinstating a controversial security deposit requirement that could force certain foreign applicants to pay up to $15,000 before being granted a B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourist) visa.
Initially introduced in the final phase of Donald Trump’s presidency, the rule has been brought back to address visa overstays and reinforce the message that US immigration and border controls are being tightened. Here’s what travelers need to know.
What’s Changing?
If you are applying for a B-1 or B-2 visa from a country with historically high overstay rates, you may now be required to submit a refundable bond of up to $15,000 in addition to your standard visa processing fees.
The bond functions much like a guarantee fee—if you leave the US within your visa’s permitted time, the full amount is refunded. However, if you overstay your visit, you forfeit the bond entirely.
Who’s Affected?
That remains uncertain. The US State Department has yet to release the list of countries that will fall under this policy. However, officials have confirmed the list will be published at least 15 days before the pilot program begins.
Once published in the Federal Register, the pilot program will be activated 15 days later, giving travelers a 30-day notice period.
Why Is the US Doing This?
Officials say the bond aims to improve compliance with visa rules. It’s directed at countries with high rates of overstays, weak internal vetting systems, or programs offering citizenship through investment without requiring permanent residence—raising concerns about identity verification.
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How Will It Work?
This requirement won’t apply to all travelers from targeted nations. Instead, US consular officers will evaluate each application individually and decide whether to impose the bond.
If you’re applying from one of the identified countries, the officer conducting your visa interview may ask you to pay the bond. Those who comply with the rules and return home within the allowed period will receive a full refund.
The rule takes effect 15 days after being published and will operate as a 12-month pilot program.
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Impact on Travelers
This change could make visiting the US more costly and complex for applicants from high-risk nations. The extra financial hurdle may discourage tourism and short business visits, especially for families or individuals with tight travel budgets.
While not a brand-new measure, the return of the return of the US visa new rules highlight the government stricter approach to immigration enforcement. Travelers planning to enter the US on a B-1 or B-2 visa should stay informed through official channels over the coming weeks.
