US Introduces ₹21,000 Visa Integrity Fee for Students, Tourists & H-1B Applicants
Indian citizens planning to travel to the United States may soon face a significant increase in visa-related expenses. As part of President Trump’s newly implemented “One Big Beautiful Law,” a hefty Visa Integrity Fee will be imposed on most non-immigrant visa categories starting next year.
According to a report by Business Today, individuals traveling to the U.S. for tourism, education, or employment will be required to pay a $250 (approximately ₹21,400) non-refundable Visa Integrity Fee. This new law applies to various visa categories including H-1B (work), B-1/B-2 (tourist/business), F and M (student), and other temporary visas. Only diplomatic visa holders are exempt from this fee.
Is the Fee Refundable?
The Visa Integrity Fee is treated like a security deposit and is mandatory. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will collect this fee at the time of visa issuance.
If the traveler complies with visa regulations—such as leaving the U.S. within five days after visa expiration or legally adjusting their immigration status—they may apply for a refund. However, if they fail to comply, the U.S. government will retain the fee.
