Trump’s ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ Brings Major Hike In US Visa Fees For Indians

Indian nationals planning to travel to the United States for tourism, education, or work will face a steep increase in visa fees beginning in 2026. The hike comes under the newly passed 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act', signed into law by U.S. President Donald Trump on July 4, 2025, which introduces a set of mandatory charges for most non-immigrant visa applicants.

What's Changing?

1. $250 "Visa Integrity Fee" Introduced
Amount: $250 (approximately ₹21,400)

Who Pays: All non-immigrant visa applicants-including those applying for tourist (B-1/B-2), student (F/M), work (H-1B), and exchange visitor (J) visas

Who Is Exempt: Only applicants for diplomatic visas (categories A and G)

Effective From: All new visa applications filed starting in 2026

This fee will be non-waivable, adjusted annually for inflation, and is intended as a form of security deposit. It may be refundable if the visa holder departs the US within five days of visa expiry without overstaying or changing status. However, refunds for students and professionals may take years to process.

2. Additional Mandatory Fees
Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record Fee: $24 (approx. ₹2,060)

ESTA Fee: $13 (approx. ₹1,120) - applicable for travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries

These charges come on top of the existing visa application fee, which remains at $185 (approx. ₹15,900).

Total Cost Breakdown for a Standard Tourist/Student Visa:

Current Total (2025): Around ₹16,000

New Estimated Total (2026 Onward): Up to ₹40,000
(Depending on category and exchange rates)

This steep rise in visa fees is expected to heavily impact Indian tourists, international students, and professionals, increasing the cost burden by more than 2.5 times in some cases. The move is part of the Trump administration's broader push to enhance visa accountability and national security through financial oversight.