A new provision in the Trump administration’s recently enacted One Big Beautiful Bill Act could make it more expensive for foreign visitors to enter the United States. One of the most controversial parts of the bill is the introduction of a $250 “visa integrity fee”—an added cost for travelers issued nonimmigrant visas.
Here’s what travelers need to know about the fee, who it affects, and how it may impact international visits to the U.S.
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What Is the Visa Integrity Fee?
The visa integrity fee is a $250 charge applied to any foreign national (“alien”) issued a U.S. nonimmigrant visa. It is in addition to existing visa application or processing fees and is non-waivable.
According to the legislation, the fee is intended to fund U.S. visa policy enforcement and border security efforts, including increased ICE staffing, detention centers, and border wall construction.
The fee amount is:
- Set at $250, with future adjustments for inflation
- Non-refundable, except under specific conditions
- Not subject to any exemptions or reductions by default
Who Has to Pay the Fee?
The fee applies to all nonimmigrant visa applicants, which includes a broad range of temporary visas such as:
- B-1/B-2 visas (business or tourism)
- F-1 visas (students)
- H-1B visas (temporary skilled workers)
- J-1 visas (exchange visitors)
- O and L visas (specialty and intra-company transferees)
However, citizens of countries eligible for visa-free travel under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP)—like most European countries—do not pay this fee, unless they apply for a nonimmigrant visa for a specific reason.
Do Canadians Need to Pay?
In most cases, no. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Canadian government, Canadian citizens do not require a nonimmigrant visa for common purposes such as:
- Visiting for up to 6 months
- Business trips
- Transiting through the U.S.
However, exceptions exist. Canadians who apply for specific nonimmigrant visas (like H-1B or F-1) will be required to pay the $250 visa integrity fee.
Can the Fee Be Waived or Refunded?
The fee cannot be waived or reduced under any circumstances, according to the law. However, there is a potential refund (reimbursement) if the visa holder:
- Leaves the U.S. within five days of visa expiration, and
- Complies fully with all visa conditions
Refunds may also be granted if the individual:
- Successfully changes status to lawful permanent resident (green card), or
- Receives a visa extension from U.S. immigration authorities
This refund system is designed to act as a compliance incentive—rewarding individuals who follow immigration rules.
When Will the Fee Be Enforced?
Although the law has been signed, there is no confirmed start date for the implementation of the visa integrity fee. Legal experts, including immigration attorney Steven Brown, note that the bill does not specify an effective date. Implementation will likely depend on administrative rollout and inter-agency coordination.
How Might This Affect International Travel?
The travel and tourism industry is pushing back hard against the new fee. Critics argue that this move could discourage lawful international visitors, particularly students, temporary workers, and tourists.
Concerns Raised:
- “A self-imposed tariff” on U.S. tourism, according to the U.S. Travel Association
- Could further strain relations with allies, including Canada
- Increases travel costs during a period of already high airfare and visa fees
- Might discourage people from studying, investing, or working in the U.S.
According to Forbes, travel officials warn that adding layers of cost and complexity could reduce America’s competitiveness as a travel destination—especially when other nations are easing entry requirements.
FAQs:
Is the $250 fee part of the visa application process?
Yes. It must be paid at the time of visa issuance, along with any standard visa fees.
Is the fee refundable if my visa is denied?
No. The fee applies only upon issuance, so you will not be charged if your visa is rejected.
Does this apply to all international travelers?
No. Only travelers who are issued nonimmigrant visas need to pay. Canadians and VWP travelers are mostly exempt unless applying for specific visa types.
