The US introduces a new $250 visa fee

The US will soon begin charging a new visa fee — the so-called "visa integrity fee" of at least $250. The measure is provided for under a recently passed law developed by the Trump administration.

The new fee will apply to all foreigners planning to obtain a US visa. This includes tourists, business travellers, foreign students, and other short-term visitors. According to the State Department, the US issued nearly 11 million such visas in fiscal year 2024.

Citizens of countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program, including Australia and many European states, are exempt from obtaining a visa for short visits of up to 90 days. However, the fee for electronic travel authorisation (ESTA) will nearly double, to $40.

The new "visa integrity fee" will be paid at the time of visa processing and provides for no discounts or exemptions. However, after completing their trip, travellers who did not violate their visa terms will be able to get the amount paid back. The refund mechanism has not yet been specified.

The US Department of Homeland Security, responsible for introducing the new fee, has not yet provided details on the refund procedure or other aspects of the new process. A department representative stressed that inter-agency coordination needs to be established before this initiative launches.

A US State Department representative clarified that the fee is intended to strengthen migration control, combat overstays, and fund border security. Funds that are not refunded to travellers will go into the general state budget.

The fee will be at least $250 in fiscal year 2025, though the Secretary of Homeland Security may increase this amount at their discretion. Going forward, the fee amount will be adjusted annually for inflation. Details of the new measure will be published on the State Department's official website.

The U.S. Travel Association supported certain provisions of the law aimed at modernising customs and aviation infrastructure, but sharply criticised the new fee. According to the association's vice president, Eric Hansen, the additional fee will increase the cost of travelling to the US by 144%, which will negatively affect tourist flow due to the financial and logistical difficulties of getting refunds. Hansen also noted that many visas are valid for 10 years, and a "temporary" fee could be perceived by travellers as long-term.