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The United States government is launching a pilot program that will require some foreign visitors to post bonds of up to $15,000 in order to receive approval for tourist or business visas. The policy seeks to end visa overstays by targeting travelers from countries with high rates of noncompliance.
A notice published in the Federal Register says that US consular officers will have the discretion to impose bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 on individuals applying for B-1 business or B-2 tourist visas. The test program will begin in two weeks and run for 12 months. It applies only to travelers from select nations identified as high risk. These nations have not yet been named. Countries likely to be targeted under the program include the four worst for staying past a visa’s expiration, including Chad, Laos, Haiti, and Congo.
While these are not confirmed, they would make sense. The full list of affected countries will be released by the State Department before the program’s launch. In fiscal year 2023, more than 300,000 foreign nationals overstayed their legal visits (according to the Department of Homeland Security).
Travelers from the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries, such as the United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, and Australia, will not be impacted by the new requirements. VWP nationals can still visit the United States for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. The new policy has sparked backlash from the tourism and hospitality industries. They warn it could further damage inbound travel. Las Vegas, for instance, already has reported an 11% drop in international visitors in June. Nearly 400,000 fewer foreign arrivals occurred than in the previous year and anecdotal reports say that Vegas is eerily quiet.
Industry leaders also argue that this bond program and the recently enacted $250 visa integrity fee will make the US one of the most expensive destinations in the world for international tourists. The US Travel Association estimates that international travelers contribute more than $200 billion annually to the US economy. Critics of the new policy fear it will discourage global tourism, hurt small businesses, and undermine the country’s global competitiveness in attracting travelers.
As the start date approaches, the State Department will finalize its list of impacted countries and provide further guidance for travelers and visa applicants. Officials emphasize that the policy is part of a test program and may be adjusted based on its effectiveness and feedback from stakeholders.
Anthony’s Take: The US is sending a clear message: visa compliance is non-negotiable and failing to follow the rules could cost you thousands.
(Image Credits: masterSergeant and mediaphotos via iStock.)
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2 comments
I have to admit that you’re getting something completely different from all this than I am. I’m getting that the White House doesn’t want people from “shithole countries” (places that have people who have dark skin) coming here. It’s none-too-subtle racism, general hatred of foreigners, and reactionary isolationism. I’m trying to see any way that this isn’t horrible but I’m coming up empty.
I’m waiting to see the list, but I think you’re right as to what countries will be listed. Each day, we’re isolating a little bit more. I tried to write this without getting on a soapbox but maybe I should have a bit more.