US to require up to $15,000 bond for some tourists

The United States could require up to $15,000 bonds for some tourist and business visas under a pilot programme launching in two weeks.

The Department of State notice released on Monday said the effort aims to deter those who overstay their visas.

The 12-month pilot programme, which will begin on August 20, will target those seeking B-1 or B-2 visas from countries with high rates of overstays although the document does not identify the nations. In June, the US government announced the possibility of full or partial travel bans on visitors from 36 countries with high rates of overstays among other concerns.

The State Department said in its announcement the programme could bring in $20m over the course of a year.

“The Pilot Program is further designed to serve as a diplomatic tool to encourage foreign governments to take all appropriate actions to ensure robust screening and vetting for all citizens in matters of identity verification and public safety,” the release said.