US Introduces $250 Visa Integrity Fee from 2025: Who Must Pay, When It Starts, and How to Get a Refund

23 July 2025 Β· Europe Permit

  • πŸ’΅ The US will introduce a Visa Integrity Fee of $250 starting in fiscal year 2026, likely from October 1, 2025.

  • 🎫 The fee applies to most non-immigrant visas, including tourist (B1/B2), student (F, M), and work visas (H-1B, L, O, P, R).

  • πŸ›‚ Diplomats, certain Canadians, Bermudians, and Visa Waiver Program travelers will not need to pay the fee.

  • πŸ” Applicants must pay the fee upfront and may qualify for a refund if they follow all visa conditions.

  • 🧾 To get a refund, visa holders must not overstay, avoid unauthorized work, and leave the US within 5 days after visa expiration or status change.

  • πŸ“… The fee will be adjusted annually based on inflation using the Consumer Price Index.

  • πŸ’Έ This additional fee raises the total visa cost for Indian tourists to nearly β‚Ή40,500, including existing charges.

  • 🚫 The US aims to reduce visa misuse, fraud, and overstays through this new integrity measure.

  • 🎯 Officials claim the fee will ensure greater compliance and protect the integrity of the US immigration system.

  • 🧳 Travelers should plan early, budget for the new fee, and follow visa rules to avoid losing the refund.

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