Starting in 2026, Indian nationals applying for US visas can expect to pay significantly higher fees, potentially reaching ₹40,000. This increase is primarily due to a new $250 "Visa Integrity Fee" introduced as part of former President Donald Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," which was enacted on July 4, 2025.

The "Visa Integrity Fee" is designed as a security deposit to encourage compliance with US visa regulations. The fee applies to nearly all non-immigrant visa categories, including tourist and business visas (B-1/B-2), student visas (F and M), work visas (H-1B), and exchange visas (J). Only diplomatic visa categories (A and G) are exempt.

In addition to the $250 "Visa Integrity Fee," the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" introduces other travel-related charges. These include a $24 I-94 fee for all non-immigrant visa holders and a $13 ESTA fee for travelers using the Visa Waiver Program. Factoring in these additional charges, the total cost for a B-1/B-2 visa for Indian applicants will climb to around $472 (₹40,456), nearly 2.5 times the current cost.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will collect the "Visa Integrity Fee" when the visa is issued, in addition to the existing application fees. The fee is also indexed to inflation and will be adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Beginning in 2026, the fee will increase each year in line with inflation.

While the "Visa Integrity Fee" may be refunded, reimbursement is conditional. Visa holders may apply for a refund if they leave the US within five days of their visa expiration without requesting an extension or change in immigration status. They may also qualify for a refund if they successfully adjust to permanent residency before their I-94 record expires. Applicants must provide substantial documentation, such as proof of timely departure or approved status adjustment. Without this documentation, the $250 fee will be forfeited to the US Treasury's general fund.

Industry experts suggest that the increased visa costs could deter new classes of Indian students and travelers from applying for US visas. Technology companies that rely on H-1B visas to bring engineering professionals to the US may also be affected.

The US State Department is expected to release further guidance on how the refund process will work in practice. In the meantime, Indian applicants planning to travel to the US should factor these increased costs into their budgets.