Metro53 - Donald Trump’s administration has introduced new immigration restrictions, requiring visa applicants from 12 additional countries to pay a security bond of up to $15,000.
According to the United States Department of State, the bond will apply specifically to B1 (business) and B2 (tourist) visa applicants. The amount will be set at three levels—$5,000, $10,000, or $15,000—determined during the visa interview.
Countries Affected
The new policy applies to citizens of Cambodia, Ethiopia, Georgia, Grenada, Lesotho, Mauritius, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nicaragua, Papua New Guinea, Seychelles, and Tunisia.
This requirement will take effect from April 2, bringing the total number of countries under the program to around 50, most of which are in Africa.
Purpose of the Bond
US officials stated that the visa bond program aims to prevent overstaying after visa expiration. According to data, about 97% of nearly 1,000 visa holders under the program have returned within the permitted period.
Authorities clarified that paying the bond does not guarantee visa approval. The amount will be refunded if the application is denied or if the applicant complies with visa conditions.
Broader Immigration Crackdown
Since returning to power in January 2025, Donald Trump has accelerated efforts to restrict both legal and illegal immigration.
The US government has already suspended immigrant visa processing for 75 countries, launched large-scale deportation campaigns, and announced plans to reduce refugee admissions to historically low levels.
