Bad News for Indians: Trump’s New Visa Bond Rule Could Make US Travel Nearly Impossible

The Donald Trump administration has proposed sweeping changes to U.S. visa rules that could require visitors from certain countries — including India — to pay a hefty security bond before entering the United States, regardless of whether they are travelling for business, work, or tourism.

According to Reuters, the U.S. State Department plans to launch a pilot program under which visa applicants would need to deposit between USD 5,000 and USD 15,000 (₹4.2 lakh to ₹12.5 lakh). The measure is intended to act as a financial guarantee to ensure travellers leave the U.S. before their visa expires and to deter overstays.

Officials were briefed on the plan on August 4, with a formal notice already sent to the Federal Register. The final rule is expected by Tuesday, and the program could roll out as early as August 20.

Pilot Project for Select Developing Nations
The proposal will initially be tested for 12 months in select developing countries, with India expected to be among them. Under the plan, adults may have to post a bond of USD 10,000, while children could face a USD 5,000 requirement. The amount would be refunded if the traveller exits the U.S. on time.

Once approved, travellers would need to enter the country within 30 days of visa issuance and depart before their visa’s expiry.

Potential Impact on Indian Visitors
If implemented, the rule could force Indian travellers to pay over ₹12 lakh upfront as a bond, sparking concerns among experts who warn it would severely limit tourism and business travel from developing nations.

A similar visa bond program was floated in 2020 under Trump but was never adopted by the Biden administration. This revived proposal is already drawing criticism for the financial burden it would impose, especially on visitors from lower-income countries.