Planning to Visit or Study in the US? A New $250 Fee Is Coming — Here’s What You Need to Know

The United States government has introduced a new $250 Visa Integrity Fee that will apply to most non-immigrant visa categories starting in fiscal year 2025. This additional charge will be required on top of existing visa application fees and will affect a wide range of travelers, including tourists, students, skilled workers, and exchange visitors.

Visa types impacted by the new fee include B-1B-2 for business and tourism, F and M for students, H-1B for skilled workers, and J for exchange programs. Only A and G visa holders—primarily diplomats and employees of international organizations—are exempt from the fee.

For example, the B-1 B-2 visa, which currently costs $185 (approximately ₦292,000), will now cost around $435 (₦686,000) with the Integrity Fee included. The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) says the surcharge is aimed at encouraging compliance with visa conditions and deterring overstays.

The Visa Integrity Fee is part of a broader policy to enforce lawful travel and immigration behavior. Applicants who follow all visa rules—such as leaving the US within five days after their authorized stay ends—may be eligible for a refund. However, the refund is not automatic. Individuals must submit proof of full compliance, such as travel records or legal documentation showing an adjustment of immigration status. Refunds will only be processed after the visa has expired.

The fee is described as a recurring surcharge and is expected to increase annually starting in 2026. The DHS will adjust the amount based on inflation. At this time, waivers, discounts, or exemptions will generally not be available.

The announcement has raised concerns among frequent travelers, international students, and employers who depend on foreign talent. With US visa costs already considered high in many parts of the world, the added financial burden may affect travel and educational plans for thousands of applicants each year.

Prospective visitors, students, and workers are advised to take this new fee into account when planning their applications. If an applicant fails to meet the requirements for a refund, the collected fee will be retained and transferred to the U.S. Treasury.