A new challenge has emerged for those traveling from India to the United States. While obtaining a US visa was previously somewhat easier and relatively affordable, the new US law, 'One Big Beautiful Bill,' could make it more expensive and complex to visit America.
Visa Fee: From 2026, obtaining a US visa will become more expensive for citizens around the world, including Indians, especially for students, tourists, and IT professionals. The US government under President Donald Trump recently passed a new law called ‘One Big Beautiful Bill.’ Under this law, a new fee has been added - the Visa Integrity Fee, which amounts to $250, or approximately ₹21,400.
What is the Visa Integrity Fee?
- It is a new mandatory fee that must be paid when applying for a US visa.
- It will be non-refundable, meaning it will not be returned even if the visa is rejected.
- It can be revised every year based on the inflation rate.
- Its objective is to bring transparency and rigor to the immigration system.
Which visa categories will be affected?
This new fee will most affect non-immigrant visa categories, such as:
- B-1/B-2 Visa (Tourist and Business Visas)
- F Visa (Students)
- H-1B and L-1 Visas (IT and other Professional Visas)
- J Visa (Exchange Program Participants)
Only applicants of diplomatic visas like A and G categories are exempt.
How much will a US visa cost now?
Until now, the fees for a US visa were relatively low. However, with the new rules in effect, it will be as follows:
- Visa Application Fee (B1/B2) - $185 = ₹15,000
- Visa Integrity Fee - $250 = ₹21,400
- I-94 Processing Fee - $24 = ₹2,000
- ESTA Fee (applicable for some) - $13 = ₹1,200
- Total Estimated Cost - $472 = ₹40,000+
Can this fee be refunded?
The Visa Integrity Fee will generally not be refunded, but it may be possible in some special circumstances:
- If a person leaves the US within 5 days of the visa expiry date.
- If the applicant legally extends their stay or applies for a Green Card.
- The amount will be forfeited in cases of violent or illegal activity, overstaying, or violation of rules.
Why did the Trump administration bring this law?
The Trump administration says this rule is necessary for US national security and the transparency of the immigration system. Its aim is to encourage foreigners to abide by the laws of the United States. This rule can be considered a type of Immigration Security Deposit, which will be managed by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This amount can change every year according to the cost of living index.
The One Big Beautiful Bill not only includes visa fees but also announces a 1% tax on sending money from America abroad. This will directly affect Indian immigrants (NRIs) who send money to their families in India. This tax will be called Remittance Tax and its aim is to strengthen the US economy. This will prevent the outflow of dollars abroad.
