US Tightens Visa Rules, Nepal Added to “Visa Bond” List

The United States has tightened its visa regulations and added Nepal to the list of countries required to provide a “visa bond.”

According to the latest update from the US Department of State released on Tuesday, from January 21, Nepali citizens applying for a B-1/B-2 visa (for tourism or business) will now need to submit a security deposit. The amount will be determined by the consular officer during the visa interview based on the applicant’s profile, with a minimum of USD 5,000 and a maximum of USD 15,000.

The deposit must be paid directly through the official US government portal, pay.gov, and applicants are strictly warned not to transfer the money via any third party or agent.

Entry and Exit Limited to Three Airports

Nepali travelers who provide a visa bond will not be allowed to enter or exit the US through any airport of their choice. They must use one of the following three airports:

• John F. Kennedy International Airport, New York
• Washington Dulles International Airport, Washington DC
• Boston Logan International Airport, Boston

Using any other airport may result in confiscation of the deposit and future entry restrictions, the US Department of State has warned.

How the Deposit is Refunded

The deposit will be fully refunded only if the applicant meets certain conditions:

• Leaves the US within the visa validity period
• Does not violate visa conditions
• Departs through one of the three designated airports

If the visa holder overstays, seeks asylum, or otherwise violates US immigration rules, the deposit will be forfeited.

The visa bond program targets countries whose citizens have historically overstayed in the US. Along with Nepal, 38 other countries—including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nigeria, and Venezuela—are currently on this list.