US Imposes 'Visa Bond' Program Requiring Up to $20,000 Deposit for Citizens of 50 Countries

Kathmandu. A rule has been implemented requiring a large amount of deposit for citizens of 50 countries, including Nepal, when applying for US tourist and business visas. The US State Department has made the 'Visa Bond' program permanent, increasing the maximum deposit amount to $20,000. This is more than 3 million Nepali rupees. This arrangement will be applicable especially for Nepali citizens wishing to go to America on B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourist) visas. According to the new rule, a deposit of a minimum of $10,000 and a maximum of $20,000 will have to be made. The arrangement is that the said amount must be paid before the visa interview.

If the visa is rejected or if the visa holder returns to their home country on time by complying with all visa conditions after reaching America, the deposit amount will be refunded. However, if the visa holder overstays in America beyond the visa period, the said amount will be confiscated.