US Visa Integrity Fee for Tourists from India, Brazil

U.S. Introduces New $250 “Visa Integrity Fee” for Tourists from India, Brazil, and Others

Washington, D.C., August 30, 2025 – In a move poised to reshape international travel to the United States, the federal government is introducing a new $250 “visa integrity fee” for non-immigrant visa applicants from countries including India, Brazil, China, Mexico, and Argentina. This fee will be added on top of existing visa processing charges like the $185 MRV (Machine Readable Visa) fee, bringing the total cost for a tourist visa close to $435.

Why the Fee?

The fee, mandated by the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act (signed by President Trump in July 2025), is officially intended to bolster visa processing, security, and compliance mechanisms.However, critics argue it’s likely to deter international tourism and deepen a trend of declining travel.

Economic Impact

Travel analysts warn this fee hike arrives just as the tourism industry deserves a boost—amid major upcoming events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup, America’s 250th anniversary (2026), and Chicago-bound events leading up to the 2028 Summer Olympics.Already, inbound travel to the U.S. is falling: a 3.1% year-over-year decrease as of July 2025, marking the fifth consecutive month of decline.

Who Gets Hit and Who Gets Exempted?

The new fee applies to B-1/B-2 tourist visas, F-1 student visas, J-1 exchange visas, and other non-immigrant categories for nationals of non-Visa Waiver Program countries—including India and Brazil. Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries remain exempt but see their ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) fee increase from $21 to $40.

For some applicants—such as those from India—the additional $250 pushes total visa costs to roughly $472 (~₹40,456).

Refunds and Enforcement

The fee is technically refundable, contingent upon timely visa expiration and compliance with rules—but enforcement is expected to be strict. Applicants who extend their stay or change status may forfeit the refund.

Tourism Sector Reacts

Industry experts criticize the timing, calling it a “self-imposed tariff” on one of America’s largest service exports.Many fear that smaller tourism-dependent communities across the U.S. could suffer disproportionately. International bookings are already down up to 60% in certain markets.