In a significant move affecting international travelers and visa holders, the U.S. government has introduced a new Visa Integrity Fee applicable to all non-immigrant visa categories. The provision, part of President Donald Trump’s recently signed ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ on July 4, 2025, will impact students, skilled workers, tourists, and more.
$250 Fee Now Mandatory for Non-Immigrant Visas
The new Visa Integrity Fee will apply to a wide range of visas including F-1 and F-2 (students and dependents), J-1 and J-2 (exchange visitors), H-1B and H-4 (skilled workers and dependents), and B-1/B-2 (tourist and business) visas. The initial fee is set at $250, but it may be revised annually to reflect inflation from fiscal year 2026 onwards. This fee is in addition to existing visa application fees and reciprocity fees.
No Waivers, But Refunds for Lawful Compliance
Importantly, the new fee cannot be waived or reduced, regardless of financial need or visa category. However, there is a provision for reimbursement. Non-immigrants who fully comply with the visa terms, do not engage in unauthorized work, and either leave the U.S. within five days after their authorized stay or receive a lawful extension or adjustment of status, may get the fee reimbursed.
Additional I-94 Surcharge & Fraud Prevention Measures
Apart from the Visa Integrity Fee, the bill also includes:
- A minimum $24 surcharge for the Form I-94, which is mandatory for most travelers entering the U.S.
- A new anti-fraud surcharge to support enforcement and fraud detection for all visa types.
Who Is Exempt?
Travelers who do not need a U.S. visa, such as most Canadian citizens and those using the Visa Waiver Program, are exempt from paying this fee as no visa is issued in their case.
