Resilient Media for Democracy Observatory

The Trump administration nearly tripled the number of countries whose citizens must post refundable bonds of up to $15,000 to apply for a U.S. visa, bringing the total to 38 nations. These bonds, ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, are intended to ensure that visitors from countries with high overstay rates depart before their authorized stay expires.

Date: January 6, 2026. Source: apnews.com