Travelling to America will become significantly more Planning a trip to the United States? You might want to get your visa sorted soon, because applying for one is about to get a whole lot more expensive.
The US government has passed a new law that will drastically increase the cost of non-immigrant visas—including tourist visas—for Indian passport holders. Starting April 2026, the cost of applying for a US tourist visa could cross ₹40,000, thanks to two brand-new charges added to the existing fees.
Why Is The US Visa For Indians Getting So Expensive?
A new bill called the “One Big Beautiful Bill”, signed into law on July 4, 2025, introduces two additional mandatory charges for visa applicants:
Visa Integrity Fee
Visa Integrity Fee
Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record Fee
These are in addition to the regular visa application fee that travellers already pay.
Here’s What You’ll Be Paying
Currently, a US tourist visa (non-petition based, like the B-2 visa for tourism) costs USD 185 (approx. ₹15,886). But under the new rules, this is what will be added:
Visa Integrity Fee: USD 250 (approx. ₹21,463)
Form I-94 Fee: USD 24 (approx. ₹2,060)
Visa Integrity Fee: USD 250 (approx. ₹21,463)
Form I-94 Fee: USD 24 (approx. ₹2,060)
That means your total visa cost will shoot up by 148%, going well beyond ₹40,000.
Good to know: The Visa Integrity Fee is compulsory and non-refundable, unless you fully comply with all the conditions of your visa, in which case you might get it back.
Who Has To Pay?
This fee hike applies to almost all non-immigrant visa applicants, including:
- Tourists
- Students (F, M visas)
- H-1B professionals
- Exchange visitors
- Only diplomats are exempt.
Also, these charges will increase every year, based on inflation in the US.
How To Apply For US Tourist Visa
If you’re still ready to make that dream trip happen, here’s a quick guide on how to apply for a US tourist visa (B-2 category):
Choose Your Visa Type
For tourism or visiting friends/family, apply for the B-2 visa.
Fill Out The DS-160 Form
Head to ceac.state.gov/CEAC and complete the DS-160 form online. Upload a passport-size photo and save the confirmation page for your interview.
Pay The Visa Fee
Create a profile on the US Visa Info website for India. Pay the application fee via NEFT, UPI, IMPS, or bank over the counter.
Book Your Appointments
Schedule two appointments: One at the Visa Application Center (VAC) for biometrics
One at the US Embassy/Consulate for your interview
