Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced the expansion of a visa bond program requiring applicants from a dozen additional countries to provide a refundable deposit of up to $15,000. The policy, primarily affecting nations in Africa along with select countries in Asia, Eastern Europe, and Latin America, is aimed at reducing visa overstays and strengthening immigration compliance.

The program builds on a Trump-era initiative that reportedly achieved a 97% compliance rate among participants. Under the expanded policy, applicants must post the bond as a condition of receiving a visa, with the amount refunded upon verified departure from the United States within the authorized period. Officials say the measure is designed to deter overstays while maintaining lawful travel pathways.

Rubio emphasized that the policy is rooted in national security priorities, noting that visa enforcement remains a critical component of border integrity. He also highlighted the State Department’s authority to deny or revoke visas when compliance concerns arise, reinforcing a broader effort to tighten immigration controls.

The inclusion of countries such as Ethiopia, Tunisia, Cambodia, and Georgia reflects a targeted approach based on overstay data and risk assessments. As the policy expands, analysts expect ongoing debate over its diplomatic and economic implications, particularly for affected nations and their citizens seeking entry into the United States.