Latest news with #EnvoyGlobal
Business Insider
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Insider
U.S. introduces $250 visa integrity fee, raising barriers for African applicants
Visiting the United States is about to become significantly more expensive for African travellers, following a new policy that introduces a hefty $250 'visa integrity fee' for most nonimmigrant visa applicants. The United States introduces a $250 'visa integrity fee' for nonimmigrant visa applicants from African nations, significantly increasing visa costs. The fee, enacted under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025, is non-waivable and in addition to existing visa-related fees. Critics argue the new policy creates financial barriers and may discourage travel to the U.S., especially for students, tourists, and business visitors from Africa. This fee is an inside part of the recently signed One Big Beautiful Bill Act, enacted by U.S. lawmakers on July 4, 2025, and is expected to take effect later this year. According to immigration legal firm Envoy Global, the new fee will apply to any foreign national issued a nonimmigrant visa, particularly from an African country, whether as a student, tourist, temporary worker or business visitor. The $250 "visa integrity fee" is non-waivable and non-reducible, and will be charged in addition to existing visa-related fees, including machine-readable visa (MRV) application fees, anti-fraud fees, and reciprocity fees. This means a single visa application for a Nigerian, Ghanaian, or Kenyan citizen could now cost as much as $500, excluding documentation and travel expenses. What this means for African tourists, students' applications African students applying for F-1 and F-2 visas, exchange visitors on J-1 and J-2 visas, and professionals applying for H1-B and H-4 temporary work visas will all be subject to the new levy, likewise African tourists visiting family or attending events in the U.S. will bear the increased cost. Notably, citizens from 42 countries, mostly in Europe, Canada, Bermuda, and a few Asian and Gulf nations, are exempt under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. These travellers won't be affected if visiting for under 90 days. In contrast, African nations are entirely excluded from the program, perpetuating the continent's disadvantage in terms of access and mobility. As the U.S. prepares to host major global events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, experts warn that the recent visa fee hike could significantly reduce international attendance, particularly from countries in Africa, South America, Asia, and the Middle East. These countries already face long waiting periods and high visa denial rates, which could worsen with the added financial burden. Although the U.S. claims the funds from the fee will go into the Treasury's general fund, there's no indication that the money will be reinvested in improving consular services or reducing processing delays, a longstanding challenge for African applicants. Even while there are claims that the fee is refundable, there are no guarantees or clear mechanisms for reimbursement. Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, has strongly criticized the new rule, calling it "a self-inflicted wound." He emphasized the psychology behind the hike, stating that, 'These fees are not reinvested in improving the travel experience and do nothing but discourage visitation at a time when foreign travellers are already concerned about the welcome experience and high prices' For many Africans, including students seeking education, entrepreneurs pursuing U.S. business opportunities, families reuniting, or tourists exploring cultural exchange, the new fee presents both a financial barrier and a symbolic message. As global discussions on travel equity and visa reform continue, the U.S. appears to be moving in the opposite direction, erecting higher walls when the world is calling for more bridges.
The Hill
5 days ago
- Business
- The Hill
Tourists to US may face new $250 ‘visa integrity fee'
Tourists, international students and business travelers may be required to pay a $250 fee when visiting the United States on a non-immigrant visa. The new provision applies solely to visitors from countries that require a non-immigrant visa for entry, as outlined in the 'big, beautiful' spending bill signed by President Trump, according to the Envoy Global law firm. No formal start date has been announced to begin the collection of the 'visa integrity fee.' Starting in 2026, the $250 price could increase to accommodate inflation, per the law firm. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem will be tasked with determining the final amount required for entry purposes. Visitors can be reimbursed for the fee if they abide by the terms of their visa per the legislation and those who are denied entry will not be charged. However, the provision says compensation is required and cannot be waived and must be paid on top of a charge attached to foreign nationals' arrival/departure Record known as 'Form I-94 fee.' The One Big Beautiful Bill Act also raised the form price from $6 to $24. Some say the new measure will roil travel plans amid major events set to be hosted in the U.S., including the 2028 Summer Olympics. 'This legislation is a giant step in the right direction when it comes to improving America's travel infrastructure and security. Bold, necessary investments in air traffic control and Customs and Border Protection will make a meaningful difference in the traveler's experience,' said U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman in a July 3 statement. 'The smart investments in the travel process make foolish new fees on foreign visitors and reductions to Brand USA, America's promotion arm, that much harder to swallow. Making America the world's most visited destination—and capitalizing on the upcoming World Cup and Summer Olympics—requires smarter policy and legislative changes that we are already pursuing,' he added. The new requirement comes amid the Trump administration's crackdown on illegal immigration and uptick in removal efforts through repeated raids.
Business Insider
30-05-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
7 African countries affected as Saudi Arabia suspends blockwork visa
Saudi Arabia has suspended the issuance of Block Work Visas for nationals from seven African countries, a move that could disrupt labor migration and remittance flows. Saudi Arabia has suspended Block Work Visas for nationals from seven African and seven additional countries. The suspension affects new and pending Temporary Work Visa applications and interrupts labor migration and remittance flows. The move impacts sectors reliant on foreign labor, raising concerns about migrant workers' conditions and economic implications both domestically and internationally. The suspension of Saudi Arabia's block work visa, which affects 14 countries in total, halts both new and pending Temporary Work Visa (TWV) applications. The affected African countries include Egypt, Nigeria, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, and Morocco. Other impacted nations are Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Yemen, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Block visas allow Saudi employers to recruit foreign workers through pre-approved quotas. Envoy Global reports that the removal of the blockwork visa quota was observed on the Qiwa platform, Saudi Arabia's labor management portal, creating uncertainty in sectors heavily dependent on foreign labor, particularly construction and domestic work. While no official reason has been given, the freeze coincides with increased Saudization efforts, which mandate higher employment of Saudi nationals in sectors like tourism, with quotas set to rise between 2026 and 2028. Reports suggest the suspension will remain in place until the end of the Hajj season in June 2025, potentially signaling a broader shift in Gulf labor dynamics and Africa–Saudi employment ties. Africa's workforce in Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia hosts a significant number of African migrant workers, particularly in the domestic and low-wage sectors. Among these, Ethiopia and Kenya are notable contributors. In recent years, Ethiopia has initiated programs to send up to 500,000 women to Saudi Arabia for domestic work. This initiative is seen as a means to alleviate economic challenges at home, despite concerns over labor conditions in the Kingdom. Kenya also has a substantial presence, with approximately 150,000 Kenyan nationals employed as domestic workers in Saudi Arabia. The Kenyan government has been encouraging labor migration to Gulf countries to address domestic unemployment issues. However, African migrant workers in Saudi Arabia often face significant challenges. Reports have highlighted issues such as exploitation, abuse, and lack of legal protections. The country's Kafala sponsorship system has been criticized for enabling employers to exert excessive control over workers, leading to situations where workers are vulnerable to mistreatment.
Associated Press
12-02-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Envoy Global Acquires IBN Immigration Solutions, Expands Africa Services
The acquisition strengthens Envoy Global's presence in Africa, adding offices in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Nairobi and Windhoek. CHICAGO and CAPE TOWN, South Africa, Feb. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Envoy Global, the leading global corporate immigration services provider, today announced the acquisition of IBN Immigration Solutions, a prominent immigration services provider headquartered in Cape Town and with offices in Johannesburg, Nairobi and Windhoek. This strategic acquisition expands Envoy Global's footprint in the EMEA region and strengthens the company's ability to provide a better way for companies to manage their global immigration programs around the world. IBN Immigration Solutions has been a trusted partner for businesses navigating the complexities of immigration in the African continent since its founding in 1998. The award-winning firm has built a reputation for excellence and reliability, and their deep expertise in African immigration law has made them a key player in the region. The firm's leadership, under the guidance of Andreas Krensel, has been instrumental in fostering a culture of integrity and client-focused service. 'Today's announcement marks another significant milestone in our company's evolution,' said Richard Burke, President and CEO of Envoy Global. 'Andreas and the team at IBN have built a trusted and highly respected practice that aligns seamlessly with Envoy Global's mission. Together, we are committed to making it easier for people to work anywhere in the world, leveraging our combined expertise to deliver unparalleled service and innovative solutions to our clients. We are excited about the opportunities this acquisition brings and look forward to achieving great things together.' The acquisition allows Envoy Global to extend its services to South Africa, Kenya, Namibia and the broader African market, enabling better service to its multinational clients with operations in the region and reinforcing its presence as a global leader in corporate immigration solutions. Clients will benefit from a seamless integration of services, ensuring a smoother and more efficient immigration process. 'We are thrilled to join forces with Envoy Global,' said Andreas Krensel, Partner at IBN Immigration Solutions. 'This acquisition not only enhances our commitment to excellence but also broadens our reach, enabling us to offer comprehensive and innovative immigration solutions on a global scale. I am especially pleased about our shared core values and focus on our employees as well as clients. We look forward to the opportunities ahead and are confident that our combined efforts will drive significant success for our clients and partners.' 'We are delighted to welcome IBN into the Envoy Global family,' said Sophy King, President of Global Immigration at Envoy Global. 'The IBN team has built a stellar reputation, with a deep commitment to their team and their clients. I have known Andreas and his colleagues for many years and am so excited that they will be joining our incredible crew of like-minded immigration experts across the world, who care about delivering immigration services in the right way.' Envoy Global has made several strides in global expansion since 2022. The company acquired Smith Stone Walters in October of 2024 and recently expanded into France, Spain and the Netherlands. They acquired UAE-based Sesam Immigration in August of 2023. About Envoy Global Envoy Global is the leading corporate immigration services provider committed to delivering a better way for companies to manage global immigration. With legal experts in 180+ countries and more than 1,750 clients worldwide, they deliver the complete range of services required to manage immigration for a global workforce. From securing visas and work authorizations, to supporting business travelers and remote workers, to providing strategic guidance that keeps programs running efficiently and in compliance, their legal professionals take a holistic, proactive, compassionate approach. Envoy Global's technology platform was purpose-built by their in-house technology team to make immigration easier for mobility professionals and the global talent they depend on. Learn more at About IBN Immigration Solutions IBN Immigration Solutions is an award-winning immigration consulting firm providing specialized visa application and renewal services. With a South African presence and offices in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Windhoek and Nairobi, the IBN team includes over 30 caring and dedicated staff from various industry backgrounds and diverse cultures, all dedicated to breaking down frontiers for their clients. Visit for more information.
