Complete Guide: U.S. Visa Integrity Fee – $250 Explained

1. Introduction

On July 4, 2025, the U.S. passed H.R. 1 ("One Big Beautiful Bill"), making the $250 Visa Integrity Fee compulsory for most non‑immigrant visa applicants to enhance compliance and limit overstays.

2. What Is the Visa Integrity Fee?

This fee is a fixed $250 USD applied per visa (not per application), charged in addition to MRV and I‑94 fees. The fee is non‑waivable and begins annual inflation adjustments in FY 2026. ([CNBC], [KPMG], [Traveler])

3. Who Must Pay?

Almost all non‑immigrant visa holders are subject to the fee—tourist (B‑1/B‑2), student (F‑1/M‑1), work (H‑1B/L‑1), exchange (J‑1), and their dependents.

Exemptions include Visa Waiver participants (e.g. UK, Germany), most Canadian/Bermudian nationals, and diplomatic visa holders (A/G). ([IndianExpress], [Travelobiz])

4. Implementation Timeline

Though the bill was enacted on July 4, 2025, actual fee collection begins at the start of U.S. fiscal year 2026—i.e. around October 1, 2025. Final guidance from DHS and State Department is still pending. ([KPMG], [Travelobiz], [CBS News])

5. Financial Impact on Indian Applicants

Visa Type Existing Fee Integrity Fee Other Surcharges Estimated Total
B‑1/B‑2 $185 (~₹16K) $250 $24 (I‑94), ESTA if applicable ≈ $470 (~₹40K)

6. Refund Terms & Conditions

The fee may be refunded only if strict criteria are met: no unauthorized employment, on-time departure within 5 days of visa expiry, or lawful change/extension of status. No automated refund system exists yet. ([CNBC], [CBS News], [KPMG])

7. Purpose & Criticism

Proponents regard it as a compliance deterrent. Critics call it a de‑facto tariff on visas—deterring tourists, students, and professionals. Refund uncertainty adds to concerns. Revenues are projected to exceed $28B by 2034. ([Traveler], [Time], [IndiaTimes])

8. Tips for Applicants

  1. Submit your application before October 1, 2025 if possible.
  2. Budget ahead for the $250 fee and other visa costs.
  3. Retain travel documentation—particularly exit proof and I‑94—for refund eligibility.
  4. Monitor U.S. Embassy, DHS & Department of State updates for fee‑collection procedures.

9. Sources