Washington (1 September 2025): The US government has announced a major policy change for foreign travelers applying for visas. Starting October 1, 2025, a new $250 “Visa Integrity Fee” will be imposed, sparking concerns among industry experts about its impact on tourism and international travel.
What is the New US Visa Fee?
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From October 1, 2025, all applicants from non-Visa Waiver Program countries will be required to pay an additional $250 fee.
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This will raise the total cost of a US visa to $442, making it one of the most expensive visas in the world.
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Affected countries include Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, India, China, and others.
Why Was the Fee Introduced?
According to US officials, the “Visa Integrity Fee” aims to:
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Strengthen immigration security checks.
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Cover the costs of administrative processing.
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Ensure applicants from high-demand countries contribute to visa operations.
However, many experts argue that the move will discourage travelers at a time when the US is already facing a decline in tourism numbers.
Current State of US Tourism
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International arrivals in the US dropped by 3.1% in July 2025, the fifth consecutive month of decline.
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The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) projects that international tourist spending in the US will reach $169 billion in 2025, which is lower than 2024 levels.
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Industry leaders warn that the new fee may further weaken the appeal of the US as a travel destination.
Concerns from Travel Industry
The US Travel Association has expressed strong concerns, saying the new charges will place “further pressure on an already struggling tourism sector.”
Experts believe that while the US is preparing to host major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Los Angeles Olympics, these may not be enough to offset the negative impact of higher visa costs.
Who Will Be Affected?
The new fee will apply to:
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Nationals of non-Visa Waiver Program countries.
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First-time applicants and those renewing visas.
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Business travelers, students, and tourists from affected regions.
For travelers from countries in the Visa Waiver Program (like the UK, Japan, Germany, etc.), the policy will not apply.
Final Words
The announcement of a new $250 US visa fee effective October 1, 2025, has triggered debate across the global tourism industry. While the US government justifies the move as a security measure, experts warn it could significantly reduce the number of international visitors.
With visa costs rising to $442, travelers from countries like India, China, Mexico, and Brazil may reconsider their plans, potentially deepening the decline in US tourism revenue.