Detailed Guide on the $250 U.S. Visa Integrity Fee (Effective FY2026)
Introduction
In a significant move to tighten immigration compliance, the U.S. government has introduced a new Visa Integrity Fee of $250 for most non-immigrant visa applicants. This new requirement, part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act signed into law on July 4, 2025, will take effect starting from October 1, 2025, marking the beginning of the Fiscal Year 2026. The primary aim of this fee is to deter visa overstays and ensure adherence to U.S. immigration regulations.
Who Will Be Affected?
The Visa Integrity Fee applies to a wide range of non-immigrant visa categories, including but not limited to:
B-1/B-2 Visas – For business visitors and tourists.
F-1/M-1 Visas – For academic and vocational students.
J-1 Visas – For exchange visitors, including scholars, interns, and au pairs.
H-1B Visas – For skilled workers in specialty occupations.
L-1, O, P Visas – Other employment-based temporary visas (likely to be included under the broader non-immigrant umbrella).
Not Affected / Exemptions:
A and G Visa Holders: Diplomats and representatives of international organizations.
Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Nationals: Those eligible for short-term visa-free travel (e.g., UK, Japan, Germany, etc.).
Canadian Citizens: Generally exempt from visa requirements for most short-term stays.
What Does the Integrity Fee Cover
The U.S. government views this fee as a security mechanism rather than a service fee. The rationale behind the $250 charge includes:
Encouraging timely departure from the U.S.
Preventing unauthorized employment or status violations.
Funding enhanced compliance and monitoring tools.
This fee is in addition to all existing visa processing charges and related costs.
When Will This Fee Be Implemented?
The Visa Integrity Fee will become mandatory for all applicable visa applications submitted on or after October 1, 2025.
It will be automatically added to the visa fee payment process when scheduling interviews or submitting applications online.
The fee will be annually adjusted for inflation based on the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI), so future years may see higher charges.
Can the Fee Be Refunded?
Yes, but only under very 0Specific conditions. The $250 Visa Integrity Fee may be refunded only if:
The visa holder departs the U.S. within five days of their visa expiry.
The individual adjusts their immigration status lawfully before the expiration of their stay (e.g., changes from student to work status).
How to Apply for a Refund:
Refunds are not automatic.
The applicant must submit a request to USCIS or a designated authority.
Required documentation may include:
Exit travel records (airline tickets, boarding passes).
Proof of status change (approval notices, new I-20 or DS-2019, etc.).
Copy of the original visa stamp and I-94 form.
Refunds will be processed within a specified timeframe (yet to be announced).
This new policy marks a major shift in how the U.S. handles non-immigrant visa compliance. For many students, tourists, and workers, this fee adds to an already expensive and complex visa process. It is highly recommended that all applicants:
Plan their travel and return dates carefully.
Maintain detailed records of their entry and exit.
Stay compliant with their visa terms to preserve the possibility of getting the $250 refunded.