The United States government is reportedly considering a new immigration policy that would require certain Green Card applicants applying from overseas to post a refundable bond of up to $100,000 as a condition for obtaining lawful permanent resident status.
According to reports, the proposal is being developed by the U.S. State Department in coordination with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The measure is intended to ensure that immigrants are financially self-sufficient and unlikely to rely on public assistance programs after entering the United States.
Under the proposed framework, applicants selected under the pilot program may be required to deposit a bond, which could be refunded after they successfully meet specific immigration requirements, potentially including obtaining U.S. citizenship. Family members or sponsors may also be permitted to post the bond on behalf of applicants.
The proposal forms part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to tighten legal immigration pathways and reinforce the principle that immigrants should not become a financial burden on taxpayers. The initiative follows previous measures such as the revival of the “public charge” rule, which allows immigration authorities to consider an applicant's likelihood of relying on public benefits when evaluating eligibility for permanent residence.
Supporters argue that the bond requirement would encourage financial responsibility and reduce risks associated with public assistance dependency. Critics, however, contend that the policy could create a wealth-based barrier to immigration, disproportionately affecting lower-income applicants and families seeking lawful permanent residence.
The proposed bond system has not yet been formally implemented and remains under consideration. If adopted, it could initially apply to applicants from selected countries before any broader expansion.
Immigration lawyers and advocacy groups are closely monitoring the development, noting that such a policy could significantly alter the accessibility of lawful permanent residence for thousands of prospective immigrants worldwide.