B-1 (visitor for business) / B-2 (visitor for pleasure) visas allow visitors to enter the United States as non-immigrants for up to six months to engage in limited activities related to business or pleasure. Visitors entering in this status cannot engage in employment in the United States or enroll in an academic study program.

On August 5, 2025, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) published a rule for a one-year pilot program to test a $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 bond system for select B-1/B-2 visitor visa applicants from countries with high rates of overstay or other specified conditions. The pilot program began on August 20, 2025. Countries subject to this rule are listed here. DOS may add countries in the future, so check the website for the current list. Notably, Mexico, Canada, and the 40 countries that take part in theVisa Waiver Program are exempt. The pilot bond does not impact other non-immigrant visas, including F, J, H, or O. 

For a more detailed regulatory overview of the B-1/B-2 bond pilot program, please visit theNAFSA website.

The pilot program will apply to academic visitors, including observers, who are nationals of the affected countries and typically use the B-1 visitor visa for business purposes to enter the U.S. The J-1 short-term scholar category may be an alternative immigration option for academic visitors who are required to pay a bond.

To explore the J-1 option, please visit the ISSS website for information about the J Exchange Visitor category and instructions on how to request the immigration document, Form DS-2019. The J-1 short-term scholar option does require more time and effort on the part of the host unit to complete the ISSS request. The academic visitor would also need to pay $220 for the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee in addition to the visa application fees they already pay.

As international students and scholars, ISSS will continue to support you. You are valuable members of the university community. Don't hesitate to contact ISSS if you have any questions: isss@ucdenver.edu.