Study in USA: State Department Announces Final Rule; Non-Immigrant Visa Fee Increases

On March 28, 2023, the US Department of State Published the Final Rule. Regarding an increase in Non-Immigrant Visa (NIV) application fee. The rule will be effective from June 17, 2023. The changes in fees are determined by an Activity Based Costing (ABC) method. 

The fee application fee for Border Crossing Card (BCC) for Mexican citizens aged 15 and over is also on increase. These rules were published in the Federal Register on March 28, 2023. However, these new implementations will be applicable from June 17 onwards. 

The application fee for visitor visas for Business or Tourism such as B1, B2s and BCCs will increase. The costs will change from $160 to $185 (INR 13K to 15K). Also, the application fee for non-petition-based NIVs, student visas and exchange visitor visas will increase from $160 to $185 (INR 13K to 15K). 

Furthermore, fees for certain petition-based nonimmigrant visas for temporary workers from the H, L, O, P, Q, and R categories. They will increase by $190 to $205 (INR 15K to 16K). Moreover, the fee for treaty traders treaty investors and treaty applicants in a speciality occupation belonging to the E category will increase from $205 to $315 (INR 16K to INR 26K).

Where to Check Fees for Visa Application

Additionally, information regarding the application fees can be found on websites such as the websites of U.S. embassies and consulates. Applicants can also check the price on the Bureau of Consular Affairs website and travel.state.gov. 

Whatsoever, these visas for work and tourism are an essential part of President Biden’s foreign policies. The government recognizes the critical role international travel plays in the US economy. 

The NIVs fees are to be based on the actual costs of providing NIV services. The costs are evaluated after a study is held to determine the costs of these services.

The US Department of State uses an Activity Based Costing (ABC) method to calculate all the costs of consular services, including visa fees, annually. These changes were last updated in 2012. Also, other NIV visa application fees were updated in 2014. 

However, other consular fees are not affected by this rule. This includes the waiver of the two-year residency required fee for specific exchange visitor programs. 

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