02/08/2026
US makes visa bond programme permanent with bonds of up to US$20,000
The United States has made permanent its visa bond programme for certain visitor visa applicants, increasing the maximum bond that may be required to US$20,000.
The new rule takes effect on August 3 and applies to applicants seeking B1 and B2 visas for business and tourism from 50 designated countries, including Grenada. (Federal Register)
Under the new regulation, U.S. consular officers may require eligible applicants to post a refundable bond of US$10,000, US$15,000 or up to US$20,000 as a condition for the issuance of a visa. The bond amount will be determined by the consular officer based on the individual application. (Federal Register)
The latest rule replaces the pilot programme introduced in 2025, under which bond amounts ranged from US$5,000 to US$15,000. The permanent programme eliminates the US$5,000 option and raises the maximum bond to US$20,000. (Federal Register)
Importantly, the new regulation does not mean that every Grenadian applying for a U.S. visitor visa will be required to pay a US$20,000 bond. Instead, the decision remains at the discretion of the interviewing consular officer, who may determine whether a bond is necessary and, if so, the appropriate amount. (Federal Register)
According to the U.S. Department of State, the visa bond programme is intended to encourage compliance with U.S. immigration laws and reduce visa overstays. Officials say the year-long pilot demonstrated that the programme was an effective enforcement tool, leading to the decision to make it permanent. (Federal Register)
Grenada was added to the list of countries subject to the visa bond programme on April 2, 2026 and remains among the 50 countries covered under the permanent policy. (Travel.gov)