Overview
- The added charge lifts the common B-1/B-2 application cost to $435, on top of the existing $185 MRV fee.
- Coverage says the $250 applies broadly to categories including B-1/B-2, F/M, J, and temporary worker visas such as H, L, O, P and R.
- The State Department now requires in-person interviews for all applicants, including those under 14 and over 79, with posted waits in Mexico of roughly 5–11 months by city.
- Reporting in Colombia cites U.S. Embassy guidance that diplomatic and official visa applicants and Visa Waiver Program travelers using ESTA are exempt.
- Outlets note the fee is described as refundable after a visa expires if the traveler fully complies with visa terms, with the refund framed as possible in theory.