The U.S. Department of State announced on Friday that it is making a visa bond program permanent for nationals from 50 countries, requiring the applicants to post security deposits of up to 20,000 U.S. dollars.
The new rule takes effect August 3, 2026, and applies to those applying for B-1 and B-2 visas for business or tourism, according to the announcement. Consular officers may require the bond as a condition for visa issuance, and the deposit will be forfeited if the holder violates the terms of their stay after entering the United States.
The policy builds on a pilot program launched in August 2025. During the trial phase, bond amounts were set at three tiers: 5,000 dollars, 10,000 dollars and 15,000 dollars.
Under the finalized rule, the lowest tier has been eliminated and the maximum requirement raised to 20,000 dollars, while the 10,000- and 15,000-dollars tiers remain in place.
Of the 50 countries covered by the program, 30 are located in Africa, including Uganda, Ethiopia, Mozambique and Zimbabwe.
The U.S. Department of State said the program is intended to reduce visa overstays, citing data from the pilot phase that it described as evidence the measure effectively encourages compliance with U.S. immigration rules.
However, some observers warn the policy will price out many applicants who cannot cover the bond costs and could negatively affect U.S. cities that depend heavily on international tourism.
US to make visa bond program permanent for people from 50 countries
Fueled by expanded visa waiver policies and improved visitor services, Shanghai's inbound tourism is surging this summer.
Beyond shopping, growing numbers of international visitors are embracing the "China Chic" trend, exploring revitalized historic landmarks and time-honored brands to experience the city's rich cultural heritage and modern evolution.
Along Nanjing Road, the century-old eyewear brand Wu Liangcai Optical has partnered with the Shanghai Museum’s summer exhibition, Ancient Civilizations of the Americas.
Its nearly 1,000-square-meter flagship store has been transformed into a vibrant cultural destination, blending retail with art to attract overseas visitors.
"So I think the idea is very nice, like to put the whole kind of traditional Maya into merchandise, it's very interesting. And I think the design is very nice as well. I think it's the first time I ever taste corn ice cream, and it's very nice, delicate, not too sweet, very good. See the culture, the food, the people, I think that's the most interesting thing. So, I think I would expect in China, in a city like Shanghai to see all the cultures, to see all the things," said James, a visitor from Britain.
Nearby, a historic building on the Bund is hosting an immersive Song Dynasty (960-1279) exhibition, combining classical paintings, life-sized sets, and dynamic light installations to offer international visitors a deeper appreciation of China's cultural heritage.
"The most I like was the Sun Wukong, because it's one of the most famous in the international places. Yeah, I really like how the Chinese they can put all the products, they can make art with the culture, and then they can spread in the world. Also, the foreigners they can enjoy about the books, the stories about China, and I really like it so much," said Torres, a Chilean visitor.
These innovative cultural attractions are encouraging visitors to stay longer and explore the city more extensively.
In the first half of 2026, Shanghai received over 5 million inbound overnight visitors, marking a 31 percent increase compared with the same period last year.
Fresh cultural experiences boost Shanghai's inbound tourism
