Overview
- Effective October 1, the new charge applies to most temporary visa categories including B‑1/B‑2, student, exchange, and many work visas, taking the standard application total to $435.
- Travelers from countries in the Visa Waiver Program are exempt, while those who paid the previous fee and secured appointments before October 1 are not charged the additional $250.
- Consular guidance underscores limited refund eligibility, payments that are valid for 365 days, and non‑transferability between applicants or posts.
- Industry groups warn the higher upfront cost could curb visits and spending, citing projections of a decline in foreign tourist outlays from $181 billion to $169 billion in 2025 and a possible 3% drop in trips.
- The fee arrives alongside tighter visa procedures announced in recent months, including restored in‑person interviews and other measures that raise screening and costs for many applicants.