Trump’s $20,000 US visa bond rule may expand beyond 50 countries; travel industry warns it could hurt tourism, economy

According to a report by Mint, the United States Department of State has moved to make its visa bond program a permanent fixture of the nation's immigration policy. The program, which was initially launched as a pilot initiative in August 2025, requires certain visa applicants to post a bond as a condition of entry. Officials have indicated that the policy may soon expand to encompass more than 50 countries, marking a significant shift in how the US manages visa compliance for specific regions.

The decision has drawn immediate scrutiny from the travel and tourism industry. Industry representatives have warned that the financial burden of a $20,000 bond could deter international travelers, potentially impacting the US economy by reducing tourism revenue and slowing business travel. Critics argue that such a high barrier to entry may lead to reciprocal measures from other nations and complicate diplomatic relations.

While the State Department has framed the expansion as a necessary step to ensure visa compliance and manage immigration flows, stakeholders are calling for a more detailed assessment of the economic impact. As the policy moves toward full implementation, travel associations are expected to continue lobbying for exemptions or adjustments to the bond requirements to mitigate potential losses in the hospitality and aviation sectors.