The United States plans to introduce higher visa fees in 2025 that will affect people travelling from Canada, Chile, Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, and Jamaica. Travel Tour & world
The United States will introduce new visa charges in 2025 that affect travellers from Canada, Chile, Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, and Jamaica. These changes aim to strengthen border rules and handle the growing workload from visa applications. While some countries face full fees, others will see partial exemptions.
What Changes for Canada
Canadian citizens remain visa-exempt for visits up to six months. However, those entering by land must pay for Form I-94. That fee will jump from USD 6 to USD 30 starting September 30, 2025.
Canadian permanent residents will face heavier costs. They need to apply for a B-2 tourist visa and pay USD 185. Starting in October 2025, they must also pay a new Visa Integrity Fee of USD 250. This brings their total to USD 435, similar to fees in non–Visa Waiver countries.
Families with Mixed Status
Families that include both Canadian citizens and permanent residents will face different rules. Citizens will not need a visa, while permanent residents must apply for one and pay the new fees. Experts warn families to plan ahead to avoid confusion at the border.
Mexico and Higher Border Costs
Mexican travellers can use either a B-1/B-2 visa or a Border Crossing Card. Both options cost USD 185, with a reduced USD 15 fee for minors applying with a parent. Beginning October 2025, all Mexican applicants must also pay the USD 250 Visa Integrity Fee, raising the total to USD 435 for most travellers.
Chile’s Special Status
Chile remains the only South American country in the Visa Waiver Program. Its citizens can travel with an ESTA authorization instead of a visa. The ESTA fee will increase from USD 21 to USD 40 on September 30, 2025. Chileans who do not qualify for the program must pay the same USD 435 in fees as other countries.
Argentina and Brazil Face Increases
Travellers from Argentina and Brazil must apply for a B-2 tourist visa. The MRV fee of USD 185 will continue, but the new USD 250 Visa Integrity Fee will increase the total to USD 435. Brazil may also face an added reciprocity fee after April 2025, when it reinstates visa requirements for U.S. visitors.
Jamaica Also Hit with Higher Fees
Jamaican travellers must apply for a B-2 tourist visa at the cost of USD 185. Starting in October 2025, they too will pay the Visa Integrity Fee, bringing the total cost to USD 435. Jamaica does not charge reciprocity fees, so no extra charges are expected.
Broader Impact
The new fees will make travel to the U.S. more expensive for millions. For Canadians, citizens still enjoy easier entry, but permanent residents face higher costs. For others, like Mexico and Argentina, the price increases could become a barrier. Chile remains in the best position thanks to the Visa Waiver Program, though even there costs will rise.
