US visa fee to jump to $442 from October 1

WASHINGTON: US visa fee would jump to $442 from October 1, 2025 after the Trump administration announced a new $250 “Visa Integrity Fee” for foreign travellers, including from Pakistan.

Tourism in the United States faces another setback after the Trump administration announced a new $250 “Visa Integrity Fee” for foreign travellers. The fee will take effect from October 1, 2025.

According to media reports, US tourism numbers are already falling due to Trump’s strict immigration policies and strained ties with several countries.

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In July alone, foreign tourist arrivals dropped 3.1 per cent, falling to 19.2 million. This marked the fifth month this year showing a decline.

WHO HAS TO PAY THE NEW FEE?
The “visa integrity fee” will apply to all visitors needing non immigrant visas, including tourists, business travellers, and international students.

The new fee will apply to citizens of countries outside the US Visa Waiver Program, including Pakistan, India, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, and China. After the fee, the total US visa cost will rise to $442,  making it the world’s most expensive visa.

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However, travelers from countries under the Visa Waiver Program, like Australia, Japan, and several European nations, will be exempt.

WHEN WILL THE FEE BE PAID?

The fee will be charged only when the visa is approved. Applicants whose visas are rejected will not have to pay.

HOW CAN TRAVELLERS GET A REFUND?

Visa holders can claim a refund if they follow all visa rules, such as not taking unauthorised jobs and not overstaying their visa by more than five days. Refunds will be processed after the visa’s expiry.

The US Travel Association warned the move will hurt the American tourism industry further. Experts say major events like the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the Los Angeles Olympics might not stop the downward trend.

The World Travel and Tourism Council estimates international tourist spending in the US could fall to $169 billion in 2025, down from 2024 levels.