Cambodia Included in U.S. Visa Bond Pilot Program Starting April 2

PHNOM PENH — Cambodia will be included in a new U.S. visa bond pilot program starting April 2, requiring certain travelers to post a financial guarantee before receiving a visa.

Under the program, applicants approved for business or tourist visas (B1/B2) to the United States may be required to pay a bond of up to $15,000 prior to visa issuance.

A visa bond is a refundable security deposit paid to the U.S. government to ensure that travelers comply with visa conditions—particularly that they leave the country before their authorized stay expires. The bond is returned once the traveler departs the United States on time and meets all requirements.

The requirement does not apply to individuals who already hold a valid B1/B2 visa issued before April 2.

Authorities also warned applicants not to make any payments before their visa interview, stressing that early payments do not guarantee visa approval and may expose applicants to scams. Any payment made before the interview is non-refundable.

The bond requirement applies only to eligible business and tourist visa applicants. Students traveling on F or M visas are not subject to the program.

Applicants are advised to consult official U.S. Embassy sources for accurate and up-to-date visa information.

Source: US Embassy-19 March 2026

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Reported by The Khmer Today