Kathmandu- The United States has introduced a new visa bond requirement for Nepali nationals applying for B-1/B-2 (business and tourist) visas, making it mandatory to deposit a specified amount while applying for the visa.
The US State Department has included Nepal in the list of countries subject to the “visa bond” provision. The new rule will come into effect from January 21.
Under the provision, visa applicants will be required to deposit an amount ranging from a minimum of USD 5,000 to a maximum of USD 15,000. The exact bond amount will be determined by the consular officer during the visa interview, based on the applicant’s individual circumstances, travel history, and risk assessment.
According to the US State Department, the bond must be deposited through the official US government payment portal, Pay.gov. The deposited amount will be fully refunded if the visa holder complies with all visa conditions, leaves the United States within the permitted period, and exits through the designated airports with a proper departure record.
However, if the visa holder overstays, violates visa conditions, or fails to properly record their departure, the deposited bond amount will be forfeited.
The US government states that the visa bond policy is aimed at ensuring compliance with immigration rules and reducing visa overstays. The decision is expected to significantly impact Nepali applicants seeking short-term travel to the United States for tourism or business purposes.
