The U.S. plans to introduce a new $250 fee for foreign visitors who require a nonimmigrant visa to enter the country. National Post
The United States will soon charge a new “visa integrity fee” to foreign visitors. This fee is part of a new law called the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Anyone who needs a nonimmigrant visa to enter the country will need to pay this fee. The fee cannot be waived, no matter the reason.
How much is the fee?
In the 2025 fiscal year, the fee starts at $250. The U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security can choose to increase it. The amount will go up each year to match inflation. Visitors must pay this new fee in addition to all current visa fees. For example, someone applying for an H-1B visa may now pay $455 instead of $205.
There is also an increase in the Form I-94 fee. That fee, which many travelers must pay, has risen from $6 to $24.
Who must pay and when?
The fee applies to anyone needing a nonimmigrant visa. This includes tourists, students, and business travelers. People will pay the fee only after their visa is approved. If the visa is denied, they won’t need to pay the fee.
Can the fee be refunded?
Yes, but only if the visitor follows all visa rules. That means not working illegally and leaving the country no later than five days after the visa ends. Refunds will only happen after the visa expires.
However, experts say getting money back may be hard. The government has not explained exactly how the refund process will work. Some lawyers are telling travelers to treat the fee as nonrefundable.
When does the fee start?
The fee has not been implemented yet. No start date has been announced. Experts believe it will need new rules or public notices before it begins. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security says different departments need to work together to set up the fee.
Why is the fee being added?
Government officials say the goal is to protect the immigration system. They want fewer people to stay in the U.S. after their visas end. Data shows most visitors follow the rules. But about 1% to 2% stay longer than allowed. Of the 11 million undocumented people in the U.S., nearly 42% first came on legal visas but overstayed.
Impact on travel and tourism
The new fee may discourage some travelers. Families on vacation or students might avoid the U.S. due to the extra cost. Experts worry the fee could hurt tourism. The U.S. is preparing for major events in 2026, like the FIFA World Cup and America’s 250th birthday. These events may attract large numbers of foreign visitors.
Funding cuts raise concerns
At the same time, the government has cut funding for Brand USA, the agency that promotes travel to the U.S. The budget dropped from $100 million to $20 million. Travel industry leaders say this may reduce the number of visitors. They support stronger travel systems but disagree with extra charges for tourists.
