Trump admin weighs $100k bond for green card applicants

The Trump administration is considering a proposal that would require some applicants for U.S. green cards to post a refundable bond of approximately $100,000 before receiving approval at American consulates overseas. The plan, which remains under internal review and has not been finalized, represents a significant potential escalation in efforts to ensure immigrants are financially self-sufficient.

According to officials, the State Department is examining its existing legal authority under the Immigration and Nationality Act to implement such a requirement. State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott confirmed the administration is exploring the measure, stating that President Trump has made clear that those who wish to immigrate must be financially self-sufficient. The bond would serve as a way for applicants to demonstrate they have access to the funds needed to support themselves.

Under the emerging proposal, the bond would be paid upfront and held for at least five years, typically until the immigrant becomes eligible for U.S. citizenship. The funds could be forfeited if the individual later relied on public support or failed to meet other conditions. While the discussed...