Last Updated on: 10th July 2023, 09:58 pm
US Announces A Large Hike in Tourist And Student Visas Cost
Effective May 30, 2023, the United States (U.S.) will increase application processing fees for certain nonimmigrant visas, including student and tourist visas, as confirmed by the U.S. Department of State.
Specifically, the fees for business or tourist visas (B1/B2) and other no-application nonimmigrant visas (NIVs), such as Student and exchange visas, waived from 160 to 185 US dollars.
Meanwhile, the application fee for petition-based nonimmigrant visas for H, L, O, P, Q, and R categories will increase from $190 to $205.
H, L, O, P, Q, and R visas are for temporary workers and those who wish to work in the United States for a specified period of time. There are several sub-categories within this type of visa depending on the type of employment.
Effective immediately, individuals applying for a trader or investor visa, or applying for specialty jobs (Category E) must pay $315 for their application fee, an increase from the previous amount of $205.
However, all other consular fees remain the same. Those who have already paid a valid, unexpired visa application fee but have not yet attended their visa interview or are awaiting processing will not be charged any additional fees.
Visa costs are based on an annual review of service fees, according to a statement from the US State Department. Most of the non-request NAV outputs were last updated in 2012, with some additional NAV outputs updated in 2014.
The State Department has recognized the important role that international travel plays in the US economy and has indicated that work and tourist visas are essential to President Biden’s foreign policy.
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