Visa Cost Increase: From $185 to $435
Under the new legislation, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, championed by President Donald Trump, a new integrity fee of $250 will be added to the current visa cost. This results in a total cost of $435, roughly 9,000 pesos.
Key Details of the New Migration Fee
Although the exact implementation date remains unclear, it is estimated to start in fiscal year 2025 or possibly from 2026. A significant change is that the fee will have annual adjustments for inflation upon its enactment, which was not previously the case.
The Visa Integrity Fee functions as a refundable deposit. This means that if you adhere to the allowed stay in the US, do not engage in illegal work, and leave the country within the specified timeframe after expiration or status change, the amount will be returned.
It’s worth noting that diplomats and citizens of countries included in the Visa Waiver Program will be exempt from this new charge.
Impact on Tourism
With the visa cost increasing from $185 to $435, the fee rises by over 135%. This not only affects travelers’ personal finances but also coincides with the upcoming 2026 World Cup, where tourism will play a crucial role.
According to a study by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), the US could lose $12.5 billion in international travel, dropping to $169 billion from $181 billion in 2024.
This impact follows months of policies by President Donald Trump’s government that have discouraged foreign travelers from visiting the country, either due to feeling unsafe or perceiving poor reception.
The WTTC study attributes the downward projection in tourism to a negative sentiment stemming from traveler detentions and excessive tariffs.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the new visa fee for the US? The new cost for a US tourist visa (B1/B2) is $435, up from the previous $185.
- When will this new fee take effect? The implementation is estimated to begin in fiscal year 2025 or possibly from 2026.
- Is the new fee refundable? Yes, it functions as a refundable deposit if travelers adhere to the allowed stay, avoid illegal work, and leave the country within the specified timeframe.
- Who is exempt from this new fee? Diplomats and citizens of countries included in the Visa Waiver Program are exempt.
- How will this fee impact tourism in the US? The significant increase in visa costs, coupled with other discouraging policies, could lead to a loss of $12.5 billion in international travel by 2026, according to the WTTC.
