Introduction of the Visa Integrity Fee

The United States has announced a significant change in visa fees for Indian tourists, students, and professionals, effective from 2026. Under the ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ signed by US President Donald Trump on July 4, a new ‘Visa Integrity Fee’ of $250 (approximately Rs 21,400) will be added to most non-immigrant visa categories. This fee aims to enhance security measures and ensure compliance with visa regulations.

Impact on Indian Travelers

Indian applicants planning to visit the US for tourism, study, or work will experience a substantial increase in visa costs. A typical tourist visa, previously costing under Rs 16,000, could now exceed Rs 40,000. This change affects various visa categories, including B-1/B-2 (tourist and business visas), F and M (student visas), H-1B (work visas), and J (exchange visitor visas). Diplomatic visa holders in categories A and G are exempt from this fee.

Breakdown of Visa Costs

Currently, a US B-1/B-2 visa costs $185 (over Rs 15,800). With the addition of the Visa Integrity Fee and other minor charges like the I-94 fee ($24) and ESTA fee ($13), the total cost will rise to approximately $472 (Rs 40,502). This represents more than a 2.5-fold increase in current visa costs. Students and employees applying for F or H-1B visas will also face significant cost hikes.

Refund Conditions for the Visa Integrity Fee

While the Visa Integrity Fee is non-refundable under normal circumstances, it may be refunded if the visa holder adheres to all terms. Compliance includes leaving the US within five days after visa expiration or legally extending their stay or changing status. However, overstaying or violating visa rules will nullify eligibility for a refund.

Rationale Behind the Fee Introduction

The US government has implemented this fee as a security measure to promote lawful conduct among foreign nationals visiting the country. It serves as a security deposit to encourage adherence to visa regulations. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will oversee this policy and adjust the fee annually based on inflation.

Additional Legislative Measures

In addition to the Visa Integrity Fee, Trump’s comprehensive ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ introduces a 1 percent excise tax on remittances. This measure aims to make it more expensive for immigrants, including Indians in the US, to send money back home. These legislative efforts are part of broader initiatives to tighten immigration policies and increase revenue from foreign nationals residing or working in the US.