The United States has introduced a 12-month visa bond pilot program targeting nationals from The Gambia, Malawi, and Zambia — countries with high US visa overstay rates. Effective August 20, 2025, the initiative requires applicants for short-term B-1/B-2 tourist or business visas to post financial bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, as determined during consular interviews.
Under the program, approved travelers must enter and exit the US exclusively through Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), or Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). The US Department of State launched this program to curb visa overstays, which occur when visitors remain beyond the authorized period of stay.
Overstay rates for the targeted countries are significantly higher than global averages. In fiscal year 2023, The Gambia reported an 18.6% overall overstay rate, rising to 38.79% among B-1/B-2 visa holders. Malawi’s rates were 4.17% by air and sea, and 14.32% by land, with student and exchange visitors reaching 19.71%. Zambia exceeded the 10% threshold in multiple categories. By comparison, India’s overall overstay rate was 1.58%, and just 1.29% for B-1/B-2 visas.
Visa bonds will be fully refunded if holders comply with all non-immigrant visa conditions, including timely departure from the US, or if the visa holder does not travel. Bonds are also reimbursed if entry is denied at the port of arrival. Applicants must submit Form I-352 (Immigration Bond) via the Department of Homeland Security and complete payment through the US Treasury’s online Pay.gov portal. The pilot program is scheduled to run until August 5, 2026.
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