VOI world/ desk
Starting in 2026, the US Department of Homeland Security will impose a new $250 Visa Integrity Fee on nearly all non-immigrant visa categories, including tourist (B‑1/B‑2), student (F/M), work (H‑1B), and exchange (J) visas, as part of the “One Big Beautiful Bill” signed into law July 4th, 2025.
For Indian nationals, this increase will significantly drive up visa costs. Combined with existing fees such as the $24 I‑94 fee and the $13 ESTA fee, the total cost for a tourist visa may reach around ₹40,000 (approximately $472) by 2026.
The Integrity Fee functions like a refundable security deposit. Applicants who comply with visa conditions and exit the US within five days of their authorized stay or obtain a lawful status change may reclaim the fee; otherwise, it goes to the US Treasury.
Industry experts warn the fee could deter new applicants, particularly students and professionals, and urge travelers to schedule visa appointments before 2026 to avoid the surcharge. U.S. policy also allows annual adjustments to the fee, pegged to inflation.
