On January 8, 2026, the U.S. Department of State published an update to the list of countries whose nationals may be required to post a “visa bond” when applying for a tourist/visitor entry visa (B-1/B-2 for business or tourism).
This type of visa is sometimes used, for example, by:
- Overseas family attending Commencement ceremonies or other MIT events, or planning a vacation in the U.S.
- Visitors invited to campus for academic or professional activities that require B-1 or B-2 status (such as conferences, guest lectures, workshops, etc.)
- Individuals pursuing short-term, non-credit certificate programs or summer enrichment programs under the B-1 or B-2 status.
This program ONLY applies to B-1 and B-2 visa applicants from certain countries (see link above), NOT to any other visa applicants.
The amount of the bond may be US$5,000, US$10,000, or US$15,000, as determined by the visa officer. Payment instructions will be provided at the visa interview.
In light of this potential scenario, it is very important to plan in advance should there be a need to apply for a U.S. B-1/B-2 entry visa, as an individual may be subject to this Visa Bond Pilot Program. For more complete details, please refer to the “Additional Information” posted below.
If any questions arise after reviewing this information, please contact the MIT International Students Office (ISO) or MIT International Scholars Office (ISchO).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
What is the update being made to the current U.S. State Department’s Tourist/Business Visa Bond List?
This is an update to the Temporary Final Rule that established a 12-month visa bond pilot program that is effective from August 20, 2025, through August 5, 2026. The affected countries are listed here.
How and when will the visa bond be determined?
The visa bond, to be determined at the B-1/B-2 visa interview at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate, would establish a bond payment to be paid by the visa applicant to “help ensure the alien’s timely departure from the United States.”
How much is the visa bond?
The amount of the bond may be US$5,000, US$10,000, or US$15,000 as determined by the visa officer. Payment instructions will be provided at the visa interview.
How will the bond be refunded?
The visa bond will be refunded if the B-1/B-2 visa holder departs the U.S. on or before the date of authorized stay, does not use the issued B-1/B-2 visa by its expiration date, or the individual is denied admission to the U.S. at the port of entry.
Who might be impacted by this bond?
The pilot program would apply ONLY to nationals of countries identified by the U.S. Department of State as having high visa overstay rates, where screening and vetting information is deemed deficient, or if an alien obtained citizenship with no residency requirement (“Citizenship by Investment”).
What else is required from individuals subject to the bond?
The program also requires an individual to enter and exit the United States at designated ports of entry (list includes Boston Logan International Airport). Countries subject to the visa bonds, the list of required ports of entry, and additional details are available on the U.S. Department of State website here.
How should I and/or my family members and friends prepare for this potential change?
It is important to share this information with individuals who are planning to travel to the U.S. for short-term activities who require a B-1/B-2 entry visa, including:
- family attending Commencement ceremonies or other MIT events;
- visitors invited to campus for academic or professional activities that require B-1 or B-2 status (such as conferences, guest lectures, workshops, etc.);
- individuals pursuing short-term, non-credit certificate programs or summer enrichment programs under the B-1 or B-2 status; or
- individuals planning vacations in the U.S.
If you have any questions, please contact your advisor at the MIT International Students Office (ISO) or MIT International Scholars Office (ISchO).