US Visa Rules Tighten as Mexico Unrest Impacts Travel

The United States has expanded its visa bond pilot program to 38 countries, requiring tourists and business travelers to post bond payments of between $5,000 and $15,000 to receive B1 and B2 visas. This move comes as Mexico, a popular tourist destination, faces civil unrest in regions such as Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, causing disruptions to air travel and ground transportation.

The US visa bond pilot program, launched by the Trump administration in August 2025, aims to strengthen immigration enforcement and reduce the number of visa overstays. The program requires travelers from participating countries to pay a bond, which will be refunded if they depart the US on time. The list of countries subject to the visa bond program has more than doubled since January 21, 2026, when 25 new countries were added.

Meanwhile, in Mexico, a military operation that killed a top drug cartel leader has led to a surge in violence, causing travel chaos in Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. The violence has resulted in shelter-in-place orders, road blockages, and disruptions to air travel. While the situation has begun to subside, with flights and ground transportation returning to normal, travelers are still advised to exercise caution when visiting the affected regions.

The US visa bond program and Mexico's civil unrest have significant implications for travelers. The bond requirements may deter visitors from affected countries, while the violence in Mexico may lead to a decline in tourism. According to the US State Department, the visa bond program is intended to "ensure that foreign nationals comply with the terms of their visas and depart the United States when their authorized stay expires."

The 38 countries subject to the visa bond program include many popular tourist destinations, such as Argentina, Brazil, and South Africa. Travelers from these countries will need to pay the bond payment, which can range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the country of origin and the type of visa.

In Mexico, the civil unrest has caused significant disruptions to travel plans. Many airlines have canceled or delayed flights to Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, while ground transportation has been affected by road blockages and shelter-in-place orders. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines and travel providers for the latest information before planning a trip to the affected regions.

The situation in Mexico is complex and fluid, with the government working to restore order and stability. Travelers are advised to exercise caution and stay informed about local conditions. The US Department of State has issued travel advisories for certain regions in Mexico, warning of the risk of crime and violence.

In conclusion, the US visa bond program and Mexico's civil unrest have significant implications for travelers. While the bond requirements may deter visitors from affected countries, the violence in Mexico may lead to a decline in tourism. Travelers are advised to exercise caution and stay informed about local conditions before planning a trip to the affected regions.

Sources:

• US Department of State: "Visa Bond Pilot Program"
• US Department of State: "Mexico Travel Advisory"
• Reuters: "US expands visa bond program to 38 countries"
• CNN: "Mexico travel chaos subsides after cartel violence"