US Visa Application Fee amounts depend on visa type, applicant category, and processing method. Most nonimmigrant visas like B-1, B-2, F-1, and J-1 cost $160.00 USD. Petition-based visas such as H-1B, O-1, and R-1 cost $190.00 USD. Treaty-based E-1, E-2, and E-3 visas require $205.00 USD. Immigrant visas include two separate fees: $190.00 USD for processing and $120.00 USD for the Affidavit of Support. Some applicants, including certain exchange visitors and diplomatic staff, may qualify for fee waivers marked as “Not Required.” All payments must be made online through official government portals or authorized third-party services. Fees are non-refundable even if the visa is denied.
Standard US Visa Application Fee by Visa Type
The US Department of State sets clear fee structures based on visa classification. Non-petition-based nonimmigrant visas cover tourist, business, student, and exchange visitor categories. These include B-1 (business), B-2 (tourism), F-1 (student), and J-1 (exchange visitor). Each of these costs exactly $160.00 USD as of 2024. This fee includes background checks, biometric data collection, and consular review. It must be paid before scheduling an interview.
Petition-based visas require additional labor because US employers or sponsors file forms on behalf of applicants. Examples include H-1B (specialty occupations), O-1 (extraordinary ability), and R-1 (religious workers). These carry a higher fee of $190.00 USD. The extra cost reflects deeper case review and coordination with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Treaty-based visas serve specific international agreements. E-1 (treaty traders), E-2 (treaty investors), and E-3 (Australian professionals) fall into this group. Each requires $205.00 USD. This higher amount accounts for eligibility verification under trade treaties between the US and partner nations.
| Visa Type | Category | Fee Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| B-1, B-2, F-1, J-1 | Non-petition-based | $160.00 |
| H-1B, O-1, R-1 | Petition-based | $190.00 |
| E-1, E-2, E-3 | Treaty-based | $205.00 |
| K-1 (Fiancé) | Family-based | $265.00 |
Immigrant Visa Fees: Processing and Affidavit of Support
Immigrant visa applicants face two distinct charges. The first is the Immigrant Visa Application Processing Fee of $190.00 USD. This covers consular review, document verification, and interview preparation. The second is the Affidavit of Support Fee of $120.00 USD. This applies to most family-sponsored immigrants and ensures financial responsibility is established before entry.
Both fees must be paid through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC). Applicants log into their case file and click the “PAY NOW” button next to each fee line. Payment requires a US bank account or credit card. A receipt prints immediately and must be brought to the interview. No cash or personal checks are accepted.
These fees are separate from USCIS petition fees, which are paid earlier in the process. For example, Form I-130 (family petition) has its own cost handled by USCIS. The CEAC fees only apply once the case reaches the embassy stage.
Private Service Fees: What Third-Party Platforms Charge
Some applicants use private companies like USVisaApplications.com to assist with form completion and scheduling. These services add surcharges on top of government fees. The base service fee is $85.00 CAD for the first applicant. Each additional family member costs $30.00 CAD. Taxes are included in both amounts.
This fee covers internal review, secure upload of DS-160 data to CEAC, and automated interview booking. It does not replace the official US Visa Application Fee. Applicants still pay $160.00 USD directly to the State Department. The private service provides a confirmation receipt with a reference number for interview day.
Using third-party help is optional. The government offers free tools and instructions. However, some travelers prefer guided support for complex cases or language barriers. Always verify that the service is legitimate and not impersonating official agencies.
Fee Waivers and Exemptions: Who Pays Nothing
Certain applicants do not pay the US Visa Application Fee. These exemptions appear as “Not Required” on the State Department’s fee schedule. Common groups include youth exchange participants in approved programs, diplomatic and official visa holders, and some public-interest law students under J-1 visas.
Applicants under age 15 applying for a Border Crossing Card (BCC) from Mexico pay only $16.00 USD. Those 15 and older pay the standard $160.00 USD. Emergency medical visas and humanitarian cases may also qualify for waivers.
To claim an exemption, applicants must select the correct visa category during online form submission. The system automatically adjusts the fee requirement. No separate waiver form is needed unless instructed by the embassy.
How to Pay the US Visa Application Fee: Step-by-Step
Payment happens online before the interview. Start by completing the DS-160 form on the official State Department website. After submission, note your confirmation number. Then visit the US Embassy or Consulate page for your country to access the local payment portal.
Most posts accept credit or debit cards. Some allow bank transfers or in-person payments at designated banks. Always use the link provided by your embassy—never third-party payment sites. Enter your case number exactly as shown on the DS-160 confirmation page.
Once paid, print the receipt immediately. Bring both this receipt and the DS-160 confirmation to your interview. Without proof of payment, the consular officer cannot proceed.
Country-Specific Variations and Local Payment Rules
While base fees are set by the US government, local embassies may have unique payment methods. In the Philippines, fees are listed in USD but can be paid via bank transfer or online banking. In Mexico, payments are processed through Banamex. Always check your embassy’s website for exact instructions.
Some countries require payment before scheduling; others allow payment at the time of interview booking. Delays can occur if the wrong amount is submitted or the payment isn’t linked to the correct case number. Double-check all details before submitting.
Currency conversion is handled automatically when using international cards. However, banks may add foreign transaction fees. Using a US-based card avoids this but isn’t required.
Common Mistakes That Delay Visa Processing
Paying the wrong fee is a frequent error. Always confirm your visa type before payment. For example, confusing a B-2 tourist visa with an H-1B work visa leads to incorrect fees and rescheduling.
Another mistake is using unofficial websites that mimic government portals. Only pay through links on travel.state.gov or your local embassy site. Scam sites often charge high fees and steal personal data.
Forgetting to print receipts causes problems at interviews. Even if you saved a digital copy, officers usually require a physical printout. Keep both the visa fee receipt and DS-160 confirmation in your travel folder.
Additional Costs Beyond the Application Fee
The US Visa Application Fee doesn’t cover everything. Many applicants pay for passport photos, document translation, travel medical exams, and courier services. Some visa types require extra employer-paid fees like the $500 anti-fraud levy for L-1 and H-1B visas.
Travel and accommodation for the interview are also out-of-pocket. Applicants often fly to major cities where embassies are located. These costs can exceed the visa fee itself, especially for families.
Always budget for contingencies. If your visa is denied, you must reapply and pay the fee again. There are no partial refunds or credits.
Recent Changes and 2024 Updates
As of October 2023, immigrant visa fees were updated to $190.00 USD for processing and $120.00 USD for the Affidavit of Support. Nonimmigrant fees remained stable except for minor adjustments in private service pricing. Always check the official State Department page for the latest numbers.
The Department now emphasizes digital payments and paperless receipts. Most embassies no longer accept cash. Biometric appointments are often scheduled separately and may have their own small fees in certain countries.
Applicants should monitor for policy shifts related to public health, security, or diplomatic relations. Fee structures can change with little notice during global events.
Frequently Asked Questions About US Visa Application Fees
Many travelers have similar questions about costs, payments, and exemptions. Below are detailed answers based on current rules and common scenarios.
Can I get my US Visa Application Fee refunded if my visa is denied?
No. The US Visa Application Fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. This policy applies to all visa categories and processing methods. The fee covers administrative work done by consular officers, even if the final decision is refusal. Applicants who reapply must pay the full amount again. There are no exceptions for financial hardship or repeated denials. Always prepare thoroughly before submitting to avoid unnecessary costs.
Do children pay the same US Visa Application Fee as adults?
It depends on the visa type. Most nonimmigrant visas charge the same $160.00 USD for all ages. However, Mexican nationals under 15 applying for a Border Crossing Card pay only $16.00 USD. Immigrant visa fees are also the same for children and adults—$190.00 USD processing plus $120.00 USD Affidavit of Support. Always check the specific visa category on the State Department website to confirm age-based rules.
Can I pay the US Visa Application Fee in my local currency?
Generally, no. All official fees must be paid in US dollars. Some embassies allow payment through local banks that handle currency conversion, but the underlying amount is still in USD. Private services may quote fees in local currencies like CAD, but the government portion remains in dollars. Using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees can minimize extra charges.
What happens if I pay the wrong US Visa Application Fee amount?
Your application will be delayed or rejected. Payment systems match amounts to visa types automatically. If you pay $160 for an H-1B visa that requires $190, the system won’t recognize it as complete. You’ll need to repay the correct amount and possibly reschedule your interview. Always double-check your visa category before payment.
Are there hidden fees when applying for a US visa?
The US Visa Application Fee is transparent, but other costs may apply. Medical exams, document translation, photo services, and travel to the embassy are not included. Private assistance platforms add service charges. Employer-sponsored visas may involve extra levies paid by the company. Always ask for a full cost breakdown before starting your application.
How long is the US Visa Application Fee valid after payment?
The fee receipt is typically valid for one year from the payment date. You must schedule your interview within this window. If it expires, you’ll need to repay the fee. Some embassies may extend validity in special cases, but this is rare. Check with your local post for exact policies.
Can someone else pay my US Visa Application Fee for me?
Yes. A friend, family member, or employer can pay on your behalf using their own card or bank account. However, you must still provide your case number and personal details during payment. The receipt must show your name and application reference. Bring proof of payment authorization to the interview if requested.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the official US Department of State website at travel.state.gov. Contact the US Embassy in your country for local payment instructions. Phone lines are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM local time. Walk-in inquiries are not accepted without an appointment.