The State Department is proposing requiring applicants for business and tourist visas to post a bond of up to $15,000 to enter the United States, a move that may make the process unaffordable for many.

The State Department said its new pilot program is aimed at making sure foreigners don't overstay their visas, by requiring travelers to post bonds.

Covered visa applicants will be required to post a bond of up to $15,000, but the State Department gave consular officers three options for bond amounts: $5,000, $10,000, and $15,000. Consular officers can determine the exact amount of the bond “based upon the applicant’s circumstances.”