The United States is set to require visa applicants from additional countries to post a bond of up to $15,000, according to a report by Reuters.
The move, introduced by the U.S. Department of State, will apply to applicants from 12 more countries, expanding an existing pilot programme aimed at reducing visa overstays.
According to Reuters, the countries include Afghanistan, Angola, Bhutan, Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Haiti, Laos, Myanmar, Papua New Guinea, Sudan and Yemen.
The bond requirement will primarily target applicants seeking B1/B2 visas for business and tourism purposes. The amount, which can go up to $15,000, is expected to be refundable provided the visa holder complies with all conditions, including leaving the United States before the visa expires.
Officials said the policy is intended to address concerns over individuals overstaying their visas, a longstanding issue in U.S. immigration enforcement.
The report noted that the measure will not apply universally to all applicants, but rather to specific countries and categories identified by U.S. authorities.
Further details, including implementation timelines, have not yet been fully disclosed. (NewsWire)
