Visa to the USA "secured by collateral": what Kyrgyz citizens need to know about the new rules

According to the new rules, Kyrgyzstanis wishing to obtain a tourist or business visa (B1/B2 category) may be required to pay a collateral of between 5,000 to 15,000 dollars. This measure is aimed at combating overstaying in the country.

In this article, we will explain in detail how the financial responsibility system works and what is important to consider when planning a trip.

Who is required to pay collateral?

The consular officer makes the decision on the necessity of collateral during the interview with the applicant. The program applies to citizens who:

submit an application for a B1/B2 visa (for business, tourism, or medical treatment);meet all visa requirements, but the consul believes they need an "additional financial incentive" to return home. It is important to remember: having collateral does not guarantee obtaining a visa. It is merely an additional condition that may be imposed after preliminary approval by the consul.

How to properly pay collateral: be cautious of scammers

The process of paying collateral is strictly regulated. Any deviations may lead to loss of funds:

Payment only at the consul's instruction: Do not attempt to pay money in advance. If funds are sent without an official request, they are non-refundable.Completion of documents: The applicant must fill out a special form I-352.Payment channel: Payment is accepted exclusively through the U.S. government platform - Pay.gov.Prohibition on intermediaries: Using third-party websites or travel agency services to pay collateral is strictly prohibited.

Strict conditions: three airports for departure

For those who received a visa under collateral, the choice of route is limited. Entry and exit from the USA is only possible through three airports:

New York (JFK)Washington (IAD - Dulles)Boston (BOS)

This is important, as exiting through other airports, such as Los Angeles or Chicago, may lead to incorrect recording of your departure and loss of collateral.

Conditions for return or confiscation of collateral

The amount of collateral (from 5,000 to 15,000 dollars) will be automatically returned in the following situations:

- You left the USA within the timeframe specified in the I-94 form upon entry.

- You received a visa but decided not to use it, and the validity period expired.

- You were denied entry at the border (CBP officers).

The collateral will be lost in the following cases:

Overstay: Even one day of overstaying in the USA cancels the collateral.Status change: If you applied for a change of visa status or requested political asylum, the collateral will be retained.Route violation: Exiting through inappropriate airports. In case of violation of the conditions, the materials will be forwarded to U.S. immigration services for a decision on the recovery of the amount in favor of the state.