U.S. Introduces $250 Visa Integrity Fee for Tourists, Students, and Workers

The United States has unveiled a new Visa Integrity Fee of $250, which will apply to most non-immigrant visa categories beginning in fiscal year 2025. This new charge will be imposed in addition to existing visa application fees, significantly increasing the total cost for applicants seeking to visit, study, or work in the U.S.

According to TravelBiz, the new fee affects a broad spectrum of visa categories, including B-1/B-2 (business and tourist), F and M (students), H-1B (skilled workers), and J (exchange visitors). Diplomatic and international organization visas—specifically the A and G categories—will remain exempt.

For example, the B-1/B-2 visa, which currently costs $185 (around ₦292,000 or ₹15,855), will now total approximately $435 (about ₦686,000 or ₹37,300) when the Integrity Fee is factored in.

Why It Matters

The U.S. government has framed the Visa Integrity Fee as a tool for ensuring better compliance with immigration rules. It is meant to encourage visa holders to abide by the terms of their stay and deter overstays or misuse.

Applicants who fully comply with visa conditions—such as departing the U.S. within five days after their authorized stay ends—may be eligible for a refund of the $250 surcharge. However, refunds will not be granted automatically and must be requested with proper documentation.

Notably, discounts, waivers, or exemptions from the fee will generally not be available.

What to Expect

The fee is set to increase annually beginning in 2026, with adjustments linked to inflation and monitored by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This has sparked concern among international students, frequent travelers, and companies that depend on skilled foreign workers—particularly in countries with high volumes of U.S. visa applicants.

As implementation draws closer, individuals planning to travel, study, or work in the U.S. are advised to incorporate this additional cost into their budgets.

Key Details to Know

• Refund Eligibility: To qualify, applicants must submit proof of full compliance, such as timely departure or a lawful change in immigration status.

• Processing Time: Refunds will only be considered after the visa has expired.

  

• Non-Compliance: If an applicant fails to meet refund criteria, the fee will be retained and deposited into the U.S. Treasury’s general fund.

This new policy underscores a broader shift in U.S. immigration strategy—placing more emphasis on personal accountability and strict adherence to visa terms.