U.S. Visa Integrity Fee – 2026 Travel Rules & Cost Hike
Overview
As part of the “One Big Beautiful Bill” signed into law on July 4, 2025, the U.S. is introducing a new Visa Integrity Fee—a non-immigrant visa surcharge of $250 (approximately ₹21,400) per application, effective fiscal year 2026
What the Fee Includes
Base visa application: ~$185 for B‑1/B‑2, varying by category
Integrity Fee: +$250
I‑94 arrival record: +$24
ESTA (if applicable): +$13–$40
EVUS fee (for China nationals): +$30
➡️ Total: ~$472–$500, nearly triple the current cost
Who Pays & When
Who pays: All non-immigrant visa applicants—tourists, students, workers.
Exemptions: Diplomatic visas (A, G) and travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries (e.g., U.K., Japan, Germany)
Effective: Fee starts October 1, 2025, with inflation indexing beginning 2026.
Why It Matters
Financial impact: Indian tourists and students will see visa costs nearly triple, from ~$185 to
$472 (₹40,500), posing a significant budget strain.Global events ahead: Critics worry this could deter tourism, especially with FIFA World Cup 2026 and Olympics 2028 on the horizon .
Policy goal: Fee intended as a “security deposit” to encourage lawful visa compliance—refunds possible only for travelers who fully adhere to rules.
Refund Eligibility
Refunds are not automatic. To qualify:
Leave the U.S. on time
Avoid unauthorized work
Maintain or legally adjust visa status
Request refund after visa expiration
If ineligible, the $250 stays with the U.S. Treasury.
Advice for Applicants
Apply before Oct 1, 2025 to avoid the fee.
Keep thorough documentation—I‑94 record, entry/exit stamps, status change paperwork—to support refund claims.
Budget wisely: Factor in total costs that may reach $500 (~₹45k).
Stay informed: Watch for formal fee collection guidance from the Department of State or DHS.
Final Take
This fee is more than an increase—it’s a shift in how the U.S. intends to enforce visa compliance. For travelers, students, or professionals eyeing a new visa in 2026 or later, early planning, careful budgeting, and staying informed are essential