The United States has introduced a $250 'Visa Integrity Fee' applicable to all non-immigrant visa applications, including tourist, student, work, and exchange visas. Beginning 2026, travelers will pay $472 (₹40,456) in total visa fees after additional charges.

The new fee, enacted under Trump's Omnibus Act, will significantly impact Indian technology firms and professionals using work visas. Tourist visa fees will increase 2.5 times to ₹40,000 for Indian nationals.

The fee acts as a refundable security deposit, returnable if visa holders comply with conditions like departing within five days of expiration. However, for students and professionals, funds may remain locked for years, creating additional financial burden.