Indian students planning to study in the US will now face significantly higher visa expenses due to a new $250 (₹21,400) Visa Integrity Fee introduced under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, effective from July 4, 2025.
What’s Changing?
- The new $250 (₹21,400) fee is mandatory for all non-immigrant visa applicants, including those in the F (student), M (vocational), J (exchange), H-1B (work), and B (tourism/business) categories.
- It is collected at the time of visa approval, not during the initial application.
- The fee will be adjusted annually for inflation.
- It acts as a security deposit, refundable only if:
- The student complies with visa rules,
- Leaves the US within 5 days of visa expiry, or
- Legally extends or adjusts visa status.
Total Cost for Indian Students
- Current Visa Fee (F-1): ~$185 (₹15,855)
- New Charges:
- $250 (₹21,400) Visa Integrity Fee
- $24 (₹2,059) arrival/departure data fee (I-94 record)
- New Total: ~$459 (₹38,500)
→ A 148% increase in visa expenses
Confused about what this means for your study abroad plans? Join GD Connect for free expert insights, visa updates, and alumni support, all in one place.
Source: Business Standard