The U.S. budget law signed on July 4, 2025, establishes a new mandatory "Visa Integrity Fee" charged by the Department of State to visa applicants upon issuance of any nonimmigrant entry visa, including F-1, J-1, H-1B, O-1, and dependent visas.
Although the statute is effective from the date it was signed into law, it is not yet possible to pay the nonimmigrant visa integrity fee, as more time is needed for government implementation.
The fee is expected to be initially set at $250 or an amount established by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) through regulation.
A U.S. government reimbursement may be authorized for nonimmigrants who comply fully with the terms of their visa, including avoiding unauthorized employment, and who meet certain conditions, such as departing the U.S. at the end of their authorized stay or obtaining an adjustment of status.
