US visa cost hike: What is Integrity fee; what UAE residents need to know
The bill included a 'Visa Integrity Fee,' which is now making headlines around the world as travelers try to understand how much it will cost them.
Khaleej Times read the act and here is everything you need to know about it:
What is the Visa Integrity Fee?
On top of regular fees, any person applying for a non-immigrant visa — tourist, student or work — must pay this charge.
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How much is it?
The fee will be at least $250. However, if the Secretary of Homeland Security decides to raise the amount, he can do so.
From 2026, the fee will be adjusted every year, on the basis of inflation which will be calculated using the Consumer Price Index.
Can it be waived?
No, the charge cannot be waived. It can, however, be reimbursed in some cases.
How does reimbursement work?
To be eligible for fee reimbursement, one must meet certain criteria. Here's the criteria:
- The person should have followed all visa rules, including not working illegally; and, or
- The person should have left the US in 5 days after their visa expired without requesting an extension.
- The person must have received an extension or become a green card holder during the visa's validity.
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