US Announces New $250 Visa Integrity Fee For Students, Workers, And Others

The United States has revealed plans to implement a new $250 Visa Integrity Fee for most non-immigrant visa types, such as those for tourism, education, and workers, starting in fiscal year 2025.

This fee will be added on top of the existing costs for visa applications.

The surcharge will affect a broad array of visa categories, including B-1/B-2 (business and tourist), F and M (students), H-1B (skilled workers), and J (exchange visitors).

Only visas for diplomatic purposes and international organizations, categories A and G, will be exempt from this fee.

For example, the B-1/B-2 visa, which currently costs $185 (approximately N292,000), will now amount to roughly $435 (about N686,000) when combined with the Integrity Fee.

The US government explains the Visa Integrity Fee as a measure to promote compliance, encouraging lawful behavior and discouraging visa overstays. It serves as an additional incentive for nonimmigrant visa holders to strictly follow the terms of their stay.

Those who adhere fully to visa conditions, such as leaving the country within five days after their authorized stay, may be eligible for a refund. However, waivers, discounts, or exemptions will generally not be available.

Starting in 2026, the fee is expected to increase annually, with adjustments determined by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) based on inflation rates.

This development has sparked concerns among frequent travelers, international students, and employers who depend on foreign talent, especially in nations with high US visa application volumes.

As the implementation date approaches, prospective travelers are encouraged to account for the higher costs when planning trips, studies, or work in the US.

The law describes the Visa Integrity Fee as a recurring surcharge, with its amount set to be adjusted for inflation beginning in 2026. While applicants can request a refund, it is not automatically provided.

Eligibility requires individuals to submit proof of full compliance with all visa conditions, such as documented evidence of timely departure from the United States or a lawful change in immigration status.

Notably, refunds can only be processed after the visa has expired.

If an applicant does not meet the eligibility criteria, the fee will be retained and transferred to the general fund of the U.S. Treasury.

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