US visa bonds apply to 50 countries, India excluded
Summary
The United States has expanded its visa bond programme to citizens of 50 countries, including Nepal, Bangladesh and Bhutan, while India remains exempt. Applicants for B1/B2 visas from the listed countries may be required to post bonds of up to USD 20,000 and follow strict travel conditions if approved.
Key Points
- The US State Department has revised its visa bond list, requiring citizens of 50 countries to post financial bonds for certain tourist and business visas.
- Nepal and Bangladesh have faced the mandate since January 21, while Bhutan was added from January 1; India remains exempt.
- Bond amounts can be set at USD 10,000, USD 15,000 or USD 20,000, depending on the consular officer’s decision during the visa interview.
- The programme is intended to reduce visa overstays and comes with strict travel restrictions and refund conditions.
