Bangladesh gets on US visa bond list; deposit of up to USD 15K required for traveling

Dhaka: The Trump administration has added Bangladesh, along with 25 other nations, to a list of countries whose citizens could be obligated to post bonds of up to USD 15,000 to apply for entry into the US, as per media reports citing the State Department website.

According to the State Department website, "Any citizen or national travelling on a passport issued by one of these countries, who is found otherwise eligible for a B1/B2 visa, must post a bond for $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000."

The amount was determined at the time of the visa interview. Following that, applicants have to agree to the terms of the bond at Pay.gov, the US Treasury Department's online payment platform, the State Department website further added.

The list comprises a total of 38 nations, mostly from Africa, Latin America, and South Asia, and the policy for these newly added countries would take effect from January 21. Back in August 2025, the State Department had launched a pilot program with a list of initial nations.

The US government said the bonds are intended to restrain tourists and business travelers from overstaying their visas.

The US President Donald Trump, since his assumption in January 2025, has hardened the country's immigration policy. This includes an aggressive deportation drive, revocation of visas and green cards, and screening of social media posts and past speeches of immigrants.

 

What the US said about the visa bond:

Prevention of overstay: The primary objective is to create a strong financial incentive to make sure visitors leave the country before their visa expires.

High-risk designation: This year, the requirement has been expanded to 38 new countries whose citizens have historically high rates of overstaying their visas.

Compliance insurance: The new policy will collect a penalty beforehand to ensure visa violations are reduced.

 

Key facts:

Refunds: The amount would be returned if a visitor leaves in due time or if the visa is denied.

Restrictions: Visitors of this program are mostly limited to a single entry with a maximum stay of 30 days and must transit through specific airports.

Affordability: As the bond is applied to individuals, it is a major blockage for lower-income families and travelers.

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