Starting October 1, 2025, the U.S. government introduced a Visa Integrity Fee (VIF) of $250 USD for all non-immigrant visa categories, including the B1/B2.
Purpose of the Fee
The goal of the VIF is to strengthen compliance with U.S. immigration rules. By making the fee refundable, the government encourages visitors to respect visa conditions and avoid overstays or misuse.
How It Works
The fee must be paid at the time of application, in addition to the $185 USD consular fee.
If the traveler respects the rules—no overstays, no violations, and compliance with visa validity—they can request a refund.
Refund procedures will vary by country and consular system.
Refund Eligibility
Applicants must:
Depart the U.S. before the authorized I-94 date.
Avoid any immigration infractions.
Ensure their travel purpose matches the visa type.
Impact on Applicants
For most travelers, the total cost of applying will increase. However, the refundable nature of the fee means that responsible travelers are not penalized. Instead, it acts as a security deposit to ensure compliance.
VisaClick’s Support
Our team tracks all policy updates and provides step-by-step instructions on paying, tracking, and eventually requesting the refund of the Visa Integrity Fee. We also guide clients on how to maintain compliance to ensure eligibility for reimbursement.
By staying informed and prepared, applicants can avoid confusion and make the most of this new system.