US Tightens Visa Rules for Bangladesh: $15,000 Bond for B1/B2 Applicants

• The US has imposed a new financial safeguard requiring Bangladeshi B1/B2 visa applicants to pay a bond of up to USD 15,000, effective January 21, 2026.
• This measure targets Bangladeshi nationals approved for business and tourist visas, placing them among a few nationalities facing increased financial scrutiny due to past overstays and immigration violations.
• The bond is a post-approval requirement, not a precondition for applying, and will be refunded only if the visa holder complies with all terms, including timely departure.
• The US Embassy in Dhaka issued a strong warning against fraudulent third-party operators, advising applicants not to pay the bond in advance or through unofficial channels.
• Bangladesh's inclusion in this stricter policy reflects US concerns over visa misuse, irregular migration, and failure to adhere to departure timelines, signaling a broader shift towards deterrence-based immigration controls.

Why It Matters: The US is requiring a $15,000 bond for Bangladeshi B1/B2 visa applicants due to visa compliance concerns.