Introduction
In one of the latest shifts in U.S. immigration policy, the U.S. Department of State has announced a 12-month pilot program that will require certain applicants for U.S. tourist visas to pay a refundable bond of $5,000 to $15,000. Starting August 20, 2025, the program currently applies to a limited number of countries — but experts in global mobility say it sends a clear message to all international travelers: choosing a trusted, secure, and reputable second citizenship has never been more important.
Key Details of the New U.S. Program
According to the official Federal Register notice, the program aims to reduce visa overstay rates and strengthen vetting procedures.
At present, the requirement applies only to citizens of Malawi and Zambia, due to their relatively high overstay rates of 14.32% and over 10% respectively.
Core features of the program:
- Bond amounts: $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 (with $10,000 as the standard)
- Maximum stay: 30 days (compared to the typical 6-month tourist visa stay)
- Entry and exit: Only through designated airports such as Boston Logan, JFK New York, and Washington Dulles
- Refund policy: The bond is refunded in full if the traveler complies with all visa conditions
- Trial period: 12 months, with the possibility of extension or permanent adoption
Why the CBI Connection Matters
The legal language of the pilot program explicitly refers to countries that offer citizenship by investment (CBI) without any residency requirement.
U.S. authorities have expressed concern that some of these passports could be obtained without strong ties to the issuing country, potentially complicating background checks.
However — and this is a crucial distinction — not all CBI programs are created equal. Some countries enforce exceptionally rigorous due diligence processes, ensuring that their passports remain trusted worldwide. Dominica is a prime example of such a program.
Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment: A Trusted Global Standard
The Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program is widely recognized for having one of the strictest multi-tier due diligence systems in the Caribbean.
Key features of Dominica’s CBI program:
- Multi-phase background checks conducted by both domestic and international agencies
- Cooperation with leading global security and intelligence databases
- Absolute refusal to grant citizenship to applicants with criminal records or security risks
- Ongoing diplomatic and security cooperation to maintain the passport’s high standing
Thanks to these high standards, Dominica’s passport has consistently retained its strong reputation, avoiding the kinds of restrictions that sometimes affect less rigorous CBI jurisdictions.
Global Travel Benefits of a Dominica Passport
Holding a Dominica passport allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including:
- All Schengen Area countries (90 days within any 180-day period)
- Hong Kong and Singapore
- Key destinations across South America and Asia
Beyond travel, Dominican citizenship provides advantages such as global business flexibility, offshore company setup, and access to international banking — all invaluable in an era of shifting travel rules.
Comparing Dominica With Other CBI Options
While some CBI jurisdictions may have looser background checks, Dominica’s strict security protocols have helped it remain on good terms with major global powers.
This is one reason why holders of a Dominica passport are far less likely to face sudden travel restrictions.
Looking Ahead: Why Your Choice of Second Citizenship Matters
Immigration and visa policies can shift quickly in response to political and security developments. Choosing a second citizenship that is trusted, respected, and backed by strong due diligence helps safeguard your global mobility even in uncertain times.
Our Recommendation
If you are considering a second passport, focus on global reputation, program integrity, and security standards — not just the number of visa-free destinations.
Our firm works exclusively with reputable programs like Dominica’s CBI, guiding you through every step of the process with transparency, speed, and compliance with international best practices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Does the U.S. visa bond program apply to Dominica passport holders?
No. Dominica’s rigorous vetting process means its passport remains highly respected and is not currently subject to the U.S. pilot program.
- Is the U.S. bond program permanent?
Not yet. It is a 12-month trial, after which the U.S. will evaluate whether to extend it.
- What are the benefits of a Dominica passport?
Visa-free travel to 140+ countries, including Schengen Europe and the UK, access to global banking, and the ability to relocate or travel freely in a volatile geopolitical environment.
Conclusion
The new U.S. visa bond pilot program highlights the reality that travel rules can change — sometimes without much notice. In such a landscape, holding a high-integrity second passport like Dominica’s is one of the most effective ways to preserve your freedom of movement and protect your global lifestyle.
