In a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the launch of its Visa Bond Program, set to begin on August 20, 2025.
Under the new initiative, certain B-1/B-2 visa applicants—primarily tourists and short-term business travelers—from countries with high rates of visa overstays may now be required to pay a refundable bond of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000.
First Two Countries Targeted: Malawi and Zambia
The initial phase of the policy affects travelers from:
- Malawi – 14.32% overstay rate (FY 2023)
- Zambia – 11.11% overstay rate (FY 2023)
The bond amount will be determined during the visa interview process and is intended as a financial guarantee that the traveler will comply with all visa terms.
Applicants will be required to:
- Submit Form I-352
- Pay the bond online through the official U.S. government platform
- Enter and exit the U.S. only through specific international airports:
- Boston Logan International (BOS)
- New York JFK International (JFK)
- Washington Dulles International (IAD)
Refund and Forfeiture Conditions
According to DHS guidelines, the bond will be fully refunded if the traveler:
- Leaves the United States on or before the end of their authorized stay
- Does not use the visa after it expires
- Is denied entry at the port of entry
However, travelers will forfeit the bond if they:
- Overstay their visa
- Apply for a green card or asylum while in the U.S.
- Depart the country after their visa has expired
Legal Perspective and Broader Implications
Immigration Attorney Akua O. Aboagye noted that while Malawi and Zambia are the first countries named, “the list of affected countries may change, so travelers should stay alert for future updates.”
She also pointed out that several nations had even higher overstay rates in FY 2023, including:
- Laos – 34.77%
- Chad – 49.54%
The policy appears aimed at deterring visa abuse while preserving legal pathways for short-term travel. Critics, however, argue that the program could discourage legitimate visitors from low-income countries and disproportionately burden African and developing nations.
As this program rolls out, immigration attorneys and advocates are closely watching for further guidance from DHS, especially regarding how disputes over bond refunds will be resolved.
