The US introduces a $15,000 bond requirement for visa recipients from 12 more countries

The US introduces a $15,000 bond for citizens of 12 more countries when applying for a visa.

This was reported by Reuters, citing a US State Department spokesperson.

According to the spokesperson, the new countries will be added to the existing list of 38 countries, bringing the program's total coverage to 50 countries, predominantly in Africa. The list of new countries covered by the program includes Cambodia, Ethiopia, Georgia, Grenada, Lesotho, Mauritius, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nicaragua, Papua New Guinea, Seychelles, and Tunisia.

The measure applies to B1/B2 category visas for business and tourist travel. The new rules will take effect on April 2 and are aimed at reducing the number of cases of overstaying in the US.

The bond will be refunded to applicants if they comply with the visa conditions and leave the country on time or do not use the visa.

The State Department noted that the program has already proven effective in combating immigration violations.