Cambodia to join U.S. visa bond pilot program from April 2

PHNOM PENH, Mar 19, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia will be included in the U.S. visa bond pilot program starting April 2, requiring certain applicants for business and tourist (B1/B2) visas to post a bond of up to $15,000 before issuance, officials said.

The bond will be refunded if travelers comply with visa conditions and depart the United States before their admission period expires. The requirement does not apply to holders of valid B1/B2 visas issued before April 2.

Authorities warned applicants not to pay bonds in advance, stressing that early payment does not guarantee a visa and third‑party sites may be fraudulent. Any payment made before the visa interview is non‑refundable.

Students traveling on F or M visas are exempt from the bond requirement. The measure applies only to qualified business and tourist visa applicants.

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to travel to the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (B-1 visa), for tourism (B-2 visa), or for a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2 visa).

Further details on the program are available on the U.S. Embassy in Cambodia’s website and the State Department’s travel portal.