WASHINGTON, Aug 4 – The United States is introducing a pilot program that will allow certain foreign nationals to obtain entry visas in exchange for a refundable cash bond of up to $15,000, according to a notice from the State Department.
The initiative applies only to business (B‑1) and tourist (B‑2) visa categories and will target nationals of countries with high rates of overstaying their permitted length of stay in the U.S.
Under the program, applicants from those countries can be issued a visa if they post the cash bond. The amount will be returned in full once the individual departs the U.S. on time, as stipulated in their visa conditions.
The State Department says the goal is to encourage compliance with U.S. immigration rules while still allowing legitimate travel for business and tourism.
