US to make visa bond requirements permanent, affecting mostly African countries
The State Department is making permanent a pilot program under which citizens from 50 countries, mainly in Africa, are required to post bonds to apply for a U.S. visa, and it’s raising the cost as well, to as much as $20,000.
Reported by 1 outlet — Seattle Times. See all sources ↓
The U.S. State Department will keep a pilot program that asks some visa applicants to pay a bond. The program applies to people from about 50 countries, most of them in Africa. The bond amount can be as high as $20,000. The rule was temporary but will now be permanent.
Why it matters
This change could make it harder and more expensive for many Africans to visit the United States. It may affect students, workers, and families who want to travel for study, work, or reunion.
- What is a visa bond?
- A visa bond is a sum of money that applicants must pay to show they will return home after their visit.
- Which regions are most affected?
- Most of the affected countries are in Africa.
- How much can the bond cost?
- The bond can cost up to $20,000.
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US to make visa bond requirements permanent, affecting mostly African countries
Sources1TypeCoverageSeattle Times