Starting August 20, citizens of Zambia and Malawi applying for US tourist or business visas (B1/B2) will face a bond of up to $15,000, approximately R$82,000. Announced by the US Department of State, the measure is part of the 12-month Visa Bond Pilot Program to reduce illegal overstays. The bond, ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, will be set during the consular interview and paid via Pay.gov, along with Form I-352. The payment does not guarantee visa issuance, and arrivals are restricted to Boston Logan, John F. Kennedy, and Washington Dulles airports. The bond is refunded only if the traveler complies with visa terms or does not enter the US. The initiative, reflecting the Trump administration’s immigration policy, concerns travelers and experts.
The measure aims to curb overstays, based on 2023 data showing 11.11% for Zambia and 14.32% for Malawi from the Department of Homeland Security. Brazil, with a 1.62% overstay rate, is not on the initial list, but program expansion raises concerns. Executive Order 14159, signed by Donald Trump, guides the creation of barriers for travelers from countries with high overstay rates.
- Program goal: Reduce illegal immigration in the US.
- Affected countries: Only Zambia and Malawi, for now.
- Pilot duration: Until August 5, 2026.
- Allowed airports: Boston Logan, JFK, and Washington Dulles.
The program, reviving a 2020 attempt halted by the pandemic, may include other countries with 15 days’ prior notice.
How the bond works
The process for B1 (business) and B2 (tourist) visas remains standard, with the added bond requirement. During the consular interview, the applicant is informed of the amount, which varies based on undisclosed criteria. Payment must be made within 30 days via Pay.gov, with Form I-352 outlining the terms. If the deadline is missed, a new interview is required. The bond does not ensure visa approval, and payments without consular guidance are non-refunded.
Refunds occur automatically if the traveler leaves the US on time, does not travel after visa issuance, or is denied entry. Violations, such as overstaying or applying for asylum, result in forfeiture. The restriction to three airports aids monitoring but increases logistical costs for travelers.
- Bond amounts: $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000.
- Payment deadline: 30 days post-interview.
- Platform used: Pay.gov, with Form I-352.
- Refund conditions: Compliance with terms or non-entry.
Impact on travelers
The bond poses a significant financial burden, especially for citizens of Zambia and Malawi, where per capita GDP is below $1,500, per the World Bank. The cost, up to $15,000 per adult and $5,000 per child, may make US travel unaffordable for many families. Immigration rights groups criticize the measure, arguing it penalizes low-income countries, limiting access to legitimate travel for tourism or business.
The selection of Zambia and Malawi, with lower overstay rates than countries like Chad (49.54%), raises questions. Experts suggest the choice may reflect political priorities tied to the Trump administration’s immigration agenda. The measure revisits a 2020 proposal involving 24 countries, halted by the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Family cost: Up to $15,000 per adult, $5,000 per child.
- Criticism: Seen as discriminatory against poor nations.
- History: Similar 2020 proposal was canceled.
Logistics and monitoring
The requirement to arrive at only three airports—Boston Logan, John F. Kennedy, and Washington Dulles—streamlines oversight. These hubs have advanced immigration control systems, enabling efficient traveler tracking. For Zambians and Malawians, this may mean costlier flights and additional connections.
The airport selection reflects the government’s focus on monitoring entries from countries with overstay histories. An estimated 2,000 travelers from Zambia and Malawi are affected annually, per the Department of State. The measure strengthens coordination between the State, Treasury, and Homeland Security Departments.
- Selected airports: Boston Logan, JFK, Washington Dulles.
- Reason for choice: Advanced monitoring infrastructure.
- Logistical impact: Higher flight and connection costs.
Immigration policy context
The bond aligns with the Trump administration’s tougher immigration stance, driven by Executive Order 14159, “Protecting the American People from Invasion.” 2023 data shows countries like Chad, Haiti, and Laos have overstay rates above 30%, while Brazil’s 1.62% keeps it off the initial list. Program expansion remains a possibility, with 15-day prior notices.
The initiative aims to deter illegal stays but is criticized for creating disproportionate barriers for legitimate travelers. Collaboration between departments ensures data integration, but the financial and social impact on vulnerable nations is significant.
- Overstay rates: Chad (49.54%), Haiti, and Laos (over 30%).
- Brazil: 1.62% rate, not initially included.
- Program expansion: Possible inclusion of other countries.
Program outlook
The Visa Bond Pilot Program will be evaluated until August 2026, based on its effectiveness in reducing overstays. The initial focus on Zambia and Malawi, with fragile economies, sparks debate about fairness. The potential inclusion of other countries, like the 24 listed in 2020, depends on pilot results. Travelers and consulates are bracing for logistical and financial impacts.
The measure underscores the Trump administration’s priority on immigration security, but its effects on tourism and bilateral relations with affected countries remain uncertain. Adjustments to bond amounts or country selection may occur.
- Pilot duration: 12 months, until August 2026.
- Possible changes: New countries or bond value adjustments.
- Estimated impact: About 2,000 travelers affected yearly.
