Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) signed on July 4, 2025, the U.S. will implement a non-waivable $250 “Visa Integrity Fee” for nearly all applicants requiring a nonimmigrant visa — including tourists, students, and temporary workers.
Who Will Be Affected?
The fee applies to most major nonimmigrant visa categories, such as:
- B-1/B-2 (Business/Tourist)
- F-1 (Student)
- H-1B (Skilled Workers)
- L-1 (Intra-company Transfer)
- O-1 (Extraordinary Ability)
- TN (NAFTA Professionals)
Travelers under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are exempt from this fee.
When Is the Fee Paid?
The $250 must be paid at the time of visa issuance, in addition to all other visa-related fees. The amount is non-waivable and non-reducible.
Refundable or Not?
While the law allows for potential reimbursement, the criteria are strict and implementation remains uncertain. To qualify, travelers must:
- Fully comply with visa terms
- Not overstay by more than five days
- Avoid unauthorized employment
- Depart on time, extend status, or adjust to permanent residence
Refunds are only available after visa expiration, and no processing system is currently in place. For many, this means the fee will likely be nonrefundable in practice.
Will the Fee Increase?
Yes. Starting in fiscal year 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may adjust the fee annually based on inflation.
Accurate as of its publication date; rules and fees change without notice — official announcements and a case-by-case assessment govern.