US makes visa bond scheme permanent for Nepalis, others
Summary
The US Department of State has made the visa bond scheme permanent for citizens of 50 countries including Nepal, requiring refundable bonds up to $20,000 to ensure visa compliance for certain business and tourist visas.
Key Points
- The US Department of State has permanently implemented a visa bond program for citizens of 50 countries including Nepal.
- The program requires applicants for B1/B2 visas to post refundable bonds of $10,000, $15,000, or $20,000 based on their travel purpose and other factors.
- Nepal was included due to concerns over visa overstays, document fraud, and misuse of US public benefits by Nepali nationals.
- Nepali officials have engaged with the US to improve compliance and potentially remove Nepal from the program in the future.
