02/08/2026
The United States is set to make its visa bond program permanent, meaning visa applicants from dozens of countries, including Nepal, may be required to pay a refundable bond of up to US$20,000 before receiving a visa.
The rule applies to B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourist) visas. The bond will be refunded if the visitor follows U.S. immigration rules and leaves the country before their authorized stay expires.
The U.S. government said the program is aimed at reducing visa overstays. It was first introduced as a pilot program in 2025 and will become permanent starting August 3, 2026.
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