U.S. Visa Now Requires a Security Deposit: New Provision Mandates Nepalis to Deposit Up to USD 15,000
Kathmandu — The visa process for Nepali citizens wishing to travel to the United States has become more stringent. Under a new “Visa Bond” policy introduced by the U.S. government, Nepali applicants will now be required to place a security deposit ranging from USD 5,000 up to a maximum of USD 15,000 at the time of visa application. The U.S. administration has announced that this policy will officially come into effect from January 21, 2026.
According to the new provision, applicants from Nepal seeking U.S. tourist (B2) and business (B1) visas will fall under this security deposit requirement. The exact amount of the deposit will be determined by a U.S. consular officer during the visa interview, based on the applicant’s profile, purpose of travel, financial status, and an assessment of the risk of visa violations. Not all applicants will be required to deposit USD 15,000; however, those deemed to be at higher risk may be asked to provide a higher amount.
The U.S. government states that the policy has been introduced to curb the problem of visa overstays—cases where individuals fail to leave the U.S. after their authorized stay expires. Following a rise in such incidents involving nationals of various countries in recent years, the United States initially launched this program on a trial basis and has now expanded it to 38 countries, including Nepal. The U.S. administration has described this as a pilot program.
The security deposit must be paid only through Form I-352 via the official U.S. government Pay.gov system. Authorities have warned that payments made through third parties, agents, or unauthorized websites will not be recognized and will not be refunded. If the applicant fully complies with all visa conditions and leaves the United States within the stipulated time, the entire deposit will be refunded. However, if the individual overstays, violates visa conditions, or is found to be involved in illegal activities, the deposit may be forfeited.
Importantly, paying the security deposit does not guarantee the issuance of a visa. The decision to grant or deny a visa will remain solely at the discretion of the consular officer. The U.S. side has clarified that if a visa is denied, the applicant will not be required to pay the deposit at all.
In Nepal, this decision has generated both interest and concern among students, tourists, businesspeople, and those planning family visits to the United States. For middle-class citizens in particular, arranging a deposit of USD 5,000 to USD 15,000 is likely to be challenging. While some view the move as an added financial burden on Nepalis, others see it as a strict but strategic step to bring greater discipline to the visa system.
Along with Nepal, countries such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nigeria, Uganda, and Zimbabwe have also been included in the visa bond list. Whether this policy will become permanent or be further revised in the future will depend on the U.S. government’s review and the outcomes of the program.
Thus, for Nepalis aspiring to travel to the United States, it is now clear that the visa process has entered a new phase—one that goes beyond paperwork and introduces a significant financial security requirement.
