$250 'Visa Integrity Fee' Rolled Out by US: How It Affects Indian Tourists, Students & H-1B Workers

Starting fiscal year 2025, Indian citizens applying for US non-immigrant visas will face an extra financial burden as the US has introduced a $250 Visa Integrity Fee. This new charge is applicable across popular visa categories and is expected to impact Indian tourists, students, and professionals substantially.

Visa Integrity Fee Introduced for Lawful Stay in the US

The US has launched a $250 Visa Integrity Fee under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, effective from fiscal year 2025. This fee is mandatory for most non-immigrant visa types, including B-1/B-2 (tourist/business), F & M (student), H-1B (work), and J (exchange). Diplomatic categories like A and G are the only exemptions. The amount must be paid at the time of visa issuance and is over and above existing visa charges.

Financial Impact on Visa Applicants from India

As per news reports, for Indian nationals, this move raises the cost of a typical B-1/B-2 visa from $185 (₹15,855) to $435 (₹37,255) or more. Additional charges like the $24 I-94 arrival/departure record fee and $13 ESTA fee for Visa Waiver Programme travellers further increase the burden. The Visa Integrity Fee is non-waivable and could rise annually based on inflation.

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Refund Eligibility Based on Compliance

An interesting component of the policy allows for conditional refunds. Applicants who comply fully with visa rules by avoiding unauthorised employment and leaving the US within 5 days after their permitted stay may be eligible for a full or partial refund. However, this is applicable only if no legal extension or status change has been made.

Part of a Broader Reform in Immigration Costs

This fee is part of a larger restructuring of immigration-related expenses under the current law. The stated aim is to ensure visa integrity, compliance, and discourage violations, using the fee as a security deposit model. The Department of Homeland Security holds the authority to adjust this figure every year.

Conclusion

The $250 Visa Integrity Fee marks a notable rise in the immigration costs Indian applicants must bear when visiting or working in the US. Alongside other existing and new fees, total visa expenses are projected to climb substantially, making it crucial for aspirants to stay informed and compliant with all visa norms.

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