The US Department of State has expanded its visa bond pilot programme to include six countries whose citizens have shown high overstay rates under the B1/B2 visitor visa category, according to the Department of Homeland Security’s FY 2024 Entry/Exit Overstay Report.

Under the rule, outlined in INA Section 221(g)(3) and the Temporary Final Rule (TFR) establishing the pilot nationals from Mauritania, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Tanzania will face implementation beginning October 23, 2025, while travellers from The Gambia will see the rule applied from October 11, 2025. Earlier phases begin August 20, 2025, for Malawi and Zambia. Advertisement

India is not on the list.

Visa bond amounts and conditions

Eligible travellers from these countries who are otherwise cleared for a B1/B2 visa must

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