US nearly triples list of countries whose citizens must post visa bonds

The State Department added 25 countries to a visa-bond list, bringing the total to 38; the bond requirement, with amounts from $5,000 to $15,000, takes effect Jan. 21.

The U.S. State Department announced an expansion of its visa-bond requirement by adding 25 countries to the list. The addition brings the total number of countries subject to the requirement to 38. The rule requires some visa applicants to post bonds of between $5,000 and $15,000 and is scheduled to take effect on Jan. 21. Key facts: - The department posted a notice saying 25 countries were added, raising the list to 38 nations. - The bond amounts cited range from $5,000 up to $15,000, and payment does not guarantee a visa. - The bond requirement is scheduled to begin on Jan. 21, and the department has said refunded amounts apply if a visa is denied or if visa terms are met. Summary: The expansion increases the number of countries whose citizens may need to post a bond to apply for a U.S. visa, and it raises potential application costs for those affected. The next procedural step is the rule taking effect on Jan. 21; further developments were not specified in the notice.