The United States has expanded its visa bond program, requiring nationals from additional countries to post refundable bonds of up to $15,000 when applying for B-1 and B-2 visitor visas. The latest expansion increases scrutiny on countries linked to citizenship-by-investment programs and reflects broader US concerns over visa compliance and vetting standards.
1. Expansion of the US Visa Bond Program
As of January 7, 2026, the US State Department extended the visa bond requirement to 25 more countries, raising the total number of affected nations to 38. The policy, effective January 21, builds on a pilot program launched in August 2025 and significantly broadens its geographic and political scope.
2. Citizenship-by-Investment Countries Under Scrutiny
Several CBI jurisdictions are directly impacted by the expansion, including Tonga, added for the first time, and Antigua and Barbuda, which now faces increased restrictions. São Tomé and Príncipe, which recently launched a CBI program, was added earlier. US officials cite concerns about screening challenges and identity changes linked to CBI frameworks.
3. Bond Requirements and Travel Restrictions
Nationals from designated countries must post refundable bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, determined during consular interviews. Approved travelers face additional limits, including a maximum stay of 30 days and mandatory entry and exit through selected US airports, with bonds forfeited in cases of overstay or visa violations.
4. Policy Rationale and Enforcement Mechanisms
The State Department bases the program on visa overstay rates exceeding 10% and alleged vetting deficiencies in certain jurisdictions. Bond amounts are calculated using estimated immigration enforcement costs, while USCIS determines breaches and oversees bond forfeiture or refund based on compliance.
5. Diplomatic Leverage and Ongoing Adjustments
US authorities describe the visa bond system as a diplomatic tool designed to pressure foreign governments to reduce overstay rates. The State Department retains the authority to revise the country list on short notice, signaling that further expansions or removals remain possible.
Summary
The expansion of the US visa bond program marks a significant tightening of entry conditions for nationals from 38 countries, with heightened implications for citizenship-by-investment jurisdictions. By combining financial guarantees with strict travel limitations, the US aims to curb overstays and strengthen vetting, while using the policy as leverage to influence foreign government behavior.
