$250 Visa Fee and Proposed Social-Media Screening Threaten Orlando’s 2026 Tourism
Industry groups warn the measures could deter high‑spending international visitors vital to Disney World’s local economy.
Overview
- A provision in the One Big Beautiful Bill, now law, adds a non‑refundable $250 'visa integrity fee' for non‑immigrant visa applicants.
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection has proposed expanded vetting that would collect five years of social‑media handles and other digital and biometric data, extending to ESTA travelers.
- The U.S. Travel Association says the policies risk a chilling effect on tourism as travelers consider alternative destinations.
- International travel to the United States fell about 3% in 2025, including a roughly 20% second‑quarter drop in Canadian trips to Central Florida.
- Tourism Economics forecasts a potential 5% decline in Orlando’s international visitation in 2026, raising concerns about local jobs and Disney’s planned expansions.