U.S. Adds $250 ‘Integrity Fee’ for Most Visa Applicants
New policy raises travel costs for millions starting October 2025

America Imposes New Visa Surcharge to Enforce Immigration Compliance

The U.S. will impose a $250 “Integrity Fee” on most non-immigrant visa applications from October 1, 2025. Congress passed the fee under the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” and President Trump signed it into law in July. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will enforce the charge alongside existing visa costs.

Most travellers, tourists, students, and temporary workers will now pay over $435 to apply for a U.S. visa. Students could pay as much as $785, depending on visa type and category. Officials say the fee will deter overstays and help fund stronger immigration enforcement.

The new law directs DHS to begin collection during the 2026 fiscal year. The fee will rise yearly, tied to inflation, unless Congress intervenes. Critics warn that rising fees will discourage legitimate travel and slow visa processing. Visa waiver countries will remain exempt, protecting many European and East Asian travelers.

Visa Waiver Countries Avoid Fees While Developing Nations Pay More

The U.S. will spare travellers from 40+ visa waiver countries, including the UK, Japan, and Germany from the new surcharge. However, most applicants from Africa, Latin America, South Asia, and Southeast Asia must pay the full fee. The change hits countries like India, Nigeria, and the Philippines hardest, where visa demand remains high.

U.S. consulates issued over 10 million non-immigrant visas in 2024; most will now include the extra charge. The law allows DHS to offer refunds if travellers leave within five days of visa expiry. Applicants must avoid overstays or unauthorised work to qualify for repayment. DHS hasn’t explained how travelers will claim or receive those refunds.

Analysts worry the lack of clear guidance will cause confusion and deter legitimate visitors. Industry leaders urge applicants to file before October 1 to avoid the fee hike. Upcoming events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics could see fewer visitors from emerging markets.

Tourism and Immigration Experts Slam the Integrity Fee

Travel experts say the fee undermines U.S. efforts to attract global visitors and students. Critics argue the surcharge sends a harsh message and reduces America’s competitiveness in tourism and education. The American Immigration Council called the new charges “unjustified financial burdens” on legal migrants and visitors. The law also adds a $100 fee for asylum seekers, drawing strong backlash from human rights groups.

Analysts say the U.S. risks alienating friendly nations and scaring off high-skilled migrants. DHS promises to coordinate with other agencies before enforcing the fee, but hasn’t confirmed the process. Travel agents and immigration lawyers say the policy creates uncertainty and delays for applicants. Stakeholders warn that without transparency, the fee could act as a hidden travel tax.

Visa applications may drop as costs rise and refund rules remain unclear. The U.S. must balance immigration goals without discouraging global talent and tourism.