by Roxanne ThompsonPermanent US Visa Bond Programme takes effect on 3 AugustEligible Grenadian applicants may be required to post bonds of US$10,000 to US$20,000Refund process can take 2 to 5 months after verified departureA major shift in United States immigration policy takes effect Monday, 3 August 2026, as the Department of State formally makes its Visa Bond Programme permanent. Grenada first became subject to the pilot programme on 2 April 2026, when it was added to the list of countries eligible for visa bond requirements. For Grenadians attending visa interviews at the United States Embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados, the permanent rule introduces the possibility of significantly higher upfront costs. While the pilot programme allowed bond amounts starting at US$5,000, the permanent rule raises the minimum to US$10,000, with consular officers able to require bonds up to US$20,000. For Grenadians planning future travel to the United States, the permanent rule means factoring potential bond payments (alongside existing visa application and travel costs) into their travel plans.