US Considers $100K Bond Requirement for Green Card Applicants

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is weighing a rule that would require certain green card applicants to post a $100,000 bond. The proposal, first reported by The Wall Street Journal, targets individuals from countries with high overstay rates.

Under the plan, applicants from nations where more than 10% of visitors overstay their visas would need to secure the bond. The money would be refunded if the applicant leaves the U.S. within 30 days of their visa expiring or if they obtain permanent residency.

The bond would apply to those applying for adjustment of status, typically people already in the U.S. on work or student visas. The policy is intended to reduce the number of immigrants who remain in the country illegally after their authorized stay ends.

Immigration advocates argue the requirement would create a financial barrier for low-income applicants. They say it could disproportionately affect people from countries such as Nigeria, India, and China, which have some of the highest overstay rates.

The proposal is in early stages and would require a formal rulemaking process before taking effect. It is part of broader Trump administration efforts to tighten immigration enforcement and reduce illegal immigration.