The Trump administration has instituted a groundbreaking visa bond policy affecting citizens from 38 countries, including the Caribbean nation of Dominica. This new requirement mandates that otherwise eligible travelers seeking B1/B2 visas must post substantial financial bonds as part of their application process.
According to official State Department guidelines, consular officers now possess discretionary authority to impose bond requirements during visa interviews, with amounts typically set at $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 depending on individual circumstances. The substantial sums represent a significant financial barrier for many applicants from affected nations.
Beyond the financial commitment, applicants must complete Department of Homeland Security Form I-352 (Immigration Bond form) regardless of their application location. The U.S. government strictly requires all payments through official channels only after explicit consular instruction, emphasizing that unauthorized payments will not be refunded regardless of visa outcome.
Notably, bond payment does not guarantee visa approval, with final decisions remaining at the discretion of visa authorities. Successful applicants face additional restrictions, being limited to entry and exit through three designated airports: Boston Logan International, John F. Kennedy International, and Washington Dulles International.
The bond terms outlined on DHS Form I-352 and Travel.State.Gov specify automatic cancellation conditions, including timely departure from the U.S. or denial at port of entry. However, violations such as overstaying or unauthorized presence trigger reporting to USCIS for potential investigation and legal action.
Antigua and Barbuda joins Dominica as the only other Caribbean territory subject to these stringent new requirements, reflecting a broader immigration policy shift affecting dozens of nations worldwide.