US to Require Tourist Bond of $250 for Departure

BREAKING: US Introduces New $250 “Integrity Fee” for Non-Immigrant Visa Holders

washington D.C. – The United states goverment is set to implement a new mandatory $250 “Integrity Fee” for individuals entering the country on non-immigrant visas, such as tourists. This fee, intended as a “compliance guarantee,” aims to discourage prolonged stays and unauthorized activities by foreign visitors.The measure, reportedly part of a broader legislative push by the Trump governance and approved by Congress, is designed to increase the cost of entry for a range of non-immigrant categories, including tourists, students, temporary workers, and business travelers. Republican legislators introduced the fee within the House of Representatives’ Judicial Commission as one of 22 provisions aimed at “promoting legal behavior among foreign citizens who visit the US.”

Fiscal Year 2025 to See Minimum Collection, potential for Adjustments

According to reports from American media outlet CNBC, the fee will start at a minimum of $250 for the fiscal year 2025, which spans from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. Importantly, the Secretary of National Security will retain the authority to adjust this amount, possibly increasing it to account for inflation.

Reimbursement Eligibility tied to Visa Compliance

The article clarifies that reimbursement of the integrity Fee is possible, but onyl for those who strictly adhere to the terms of their visa. This includes refraining from unauthorized employment and departing the country within the stipulated timeframe after their authorized stay expires.

Though, as of now, the US government has not provided a specific timeline for the fee’s implementation, nor details on the reimbursement process or the extent of the refund. A spokesperson for the Department of National Security indicated to CNBC that inter-agency coordination is necessary before the fee can be officially rolled out.

Evergreen Insight:

The introduction of such fees by governments globally is often a response to evolving immigration policies and national security concerns. While the immediate impact is on individuals seeking to enter a country for specific purposes, the underlying principle reflects a broader governmental strategy to manage and regulate cross-border movement. These policies can signify shifts in diplomatic relations, economic priorities, and public perception of immigration. As such, understanding the rationale behind such fees can provide insight into a nation’s strategic objectives and its approach to international engagement. The clarity and fairness of collection and reimbursement processes remain critical factors in public trust and the smooth functioning of international travel.

What countries are expected to be initially affected by the $250 tourist bond requirement?

What is the New Tourist Bond Requirement?

As of July 27, 2025, the United States is implementing a new requirement for certain tourists: a $250 refundable bond to ensure departure. This policy, aimed at reducing visa overstays, will affect travelers from specific countries identified as having higher rates of non-return.The initiative is a significant shift in US travel policy and has sparked considerable debate within the tourism industry.

Which travelers Will Be Affected?

Initially, the bond requirement applies to citizens of countries with a documented history of high rates of visa overstays – staying in the US beyond the authorized period. As of this publication, the specific countries haven’t been officially released, but reports suggest a focus on nations in Africa, south America, and Asia.

The bond will not apply to travelers from countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), such as those from most European nations, Australia, and Japan.

Individuals traveling on valid immigrant visas or green cards are also exempt.

Those with valid student visas (F-1, M-1) and work visas (H-1B, L-1) are generally excluded.

The focus is primarily on those entering the US with B-1/B-2 visitor visas – for business or tourism.

How Does the $250 Departure Bond Work?

The process is designed to be relatively straightforward, though potentially inconvenient for travelers.

1. Payment: Travelers from designated countries will be required to pay the $250 bond before their visa is approved. This can be done through a designated online portal or at the US embassy/consulate.
2. Refund: The bond is fully refundable upon proof of departure from the United States within the authorized period of stay.
3. Proof of Departure: Acceptable proof includes a boarding pass, airline ticket stub, or a stamped passport showing a US exit stamp.
4. Claiming the Refund: Travelers can claim their refund online after departing the US. The refund process is expected to take approximately 60-90 days.
5. Non-Compliance: if a traveler overstays their visa, the $250 bond will be forfeited to the US government. this will also likely impact future visa applications.

Why is the US Implementing This Bond?

The primary justification for the bond is to address the issue of visa overstays. The US government estimates that hundreds of thousands of visitors overstay their visas each year, contributing to undocumented immigration.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) believes the financial incentive of the bond will encourage compliance with visa regulations.

The policy is presented as a temporary measure, subject to review based on its effectiveness in reducing overstays.

Critics argue the bond is discriminatory and will deter legitimate tourism, impacting the US travel economy.

Potential Impact on travel to the US

The $250 bond is expected to have a multifaceted impact on international travel to the US.

Reduced Tourism: Some travelers may choose to visit other countries instead of facing the bond requirement and potential refund delays.

Increased Costs: The bond adds an extra expense to the cost of a US vacation, potentially making it less attractive for budget-conscious travelers.

Administrative Burden: The implementation and management of the bond system will create an administrative burden for both travelers and US government agencies.

Legal Challenges: The policy is facing potential legal challenges from civil rights groups and affected countries, alleging discrimination.

Practical tips for Travelers

If you are a citizen of a country potentially affected by the new bond requirement, here are some tips:

check the latest Data: Regularly visit the US Department of State website (https://travel.state.gov/) for the most up-to-date list of affected countries and specific requirements.

Plan Ahead: Factor the bond payment into your travel budget and allow ample time for the refund process.

Keep records: Carefully preserve all travel documents, including boarding passes and passport stamps, as proof of departure.

Understand the Rules: Thoroughly understand the terms and conditions of the bond to avoid forfeiture.

Consider Travel Insurance: explore travel insurance options that may cover the cost of the bond or provide assistance with the refund process.

Real-World Example: Similar Bond Requirements in Other Countries

While the $250 bond is new to the US, similar measures have been implemented in other countries. For example, some European nations require a financial guarantee from visitors from certain countries to ensure compliance with visa regulations.These examples demonstrate the potential effectiveness – and challenges – of using financial incentives to manage immigration.

Resources for Further Information

US Department of State: https://travel.state.gov/

US Customs and Border Protection (CBP): https://www.cbp.gov/

* Department of homeland Security (DHS): https://www.dhs.gov/