tourist visa for usa price

Why the visa process could be 'discouraging visitors' and keeping families apart

• Tourist visas can be expensive and confusing to apply for.
• The process may discourage some travelers from visiting the U.S.
• Visa policies try to balance economic and national security priorities.

It can be hard for international visitors to get permission to come to the U.S. 

Onyi Apakama knows this firsthand. She's a first-generation American born to two Nigerian immigrants, and much of her family is still living overseas.

A convoluted and expensive tourist visa application process means her relatives have missed major milestones with family here in the U.S. 

"It was definitely a sad thing because it was (my cousin's) younger sister," Apakama said. "She wasn’t able to attend her sister’s wedding."

For Americans, it can be easy to forget how complicated international travel can be depending on your passport.

U.S. passport holders can access 186 international destinations without applying for visas in advance according to the Henley Passport Index, meaning we almost never need to go through the hassle and expense of filling out extra paperwork or turning up at a country's embassy to prove ourselves before a trip.

But many visitors coming to the U.S. face a process that's much more arduous. 

Forget the post office: You may be able to renew your passport online

Summer airport meltdowns?: Things in Amsterdam are chilling out

According to Esra Calvert, around 40% of international visitors to the U.S. need to apply for a visa to enter. Calvert is the principal at Esra Calvert Consulting, which focuses on data in the tourism industry.

"There is paperwork you have to do online, and you wait for your appointment time," she told USA TODAY. "When your appointment time comes, you go to the embassy for an interview. You have to show proof of finances, what your plans are, very basic pieces of information just for proof that you’re going on vacation or a business meeting."

In Nigeria, Apakama said, it can also be harder to get a visa appointment if your family isn't politically well-connected. 

Those extra barriers sometimes discourage people from applying for visas at all – to say nothing of those whose applications are rejected. That means the U.S. is potentially missing out on a lot of tourist dollars that would otherwise be generated every year.

According to the Department of Commerce , tourism accounted for $1.9 trillion in economic output in 2019. 

"There’s so many choices for travelers," Calvert said. "If a traveler has to wait for a year," just to get their visa interview, they’re going to go somewhere else   for vacation.

Raoul Bianchi, a reader in political economy at Manchester Metropolitan University's Department of Economics Policy and International Business said that tourist visa applications disproportionately make it harder for people to travel from the developing world.

'They should've helped me': Booking through platforms like Expedia leaves some travelers stranded

Looser COVID guidelines: What the CDC's latest policy means for travel

"The global north/global south division is very stark," he said in an interview. "There is an enormous disparity between wealthy Westernized countries and sub-Saharan Africa, South and Central America and South Asia."

The process can be so opaque that experts suggest many visa applicants fear that talking about their experiences to the press could hinder their ability to get approved.

What does a tourist visa cost to visit the US?

According to the State Department, it costs $160 per person to apply for a tourist visa. They can be valid for up to 10 years, depending on the applicant's nationality.

The fees are becoming more prohibitive for some travelers as inflation rises. 

"The cost has gone up. And right now with inflation (and) the exchange rate, the Nigerian naira has gotten a lot weaker in the last year or six months," Apakama said.

When she visited Nigeria in 2019 or 2020, it was around 350 naira to the dollar. Now it's closer to 430 nairas to the dollar, meaning her relatives could wind up paying tens of thousands of naira just in visa fees for a whole family unit to visit.

In a statement, the State Department said those fees are nonrefundable and nontransferable, even if the application is rejected. 

"The department’s consular operations are largely funded by fees for services. Visa fees charged are generally based on the cost to the department of providing visa services, and are determined through periodic studies of the cost of consular services, including visa services," a spokesperson said. "This means that there is no profit to the U.S. government from the collection of fees. Rather the fee is in place to recover the cost to the U.S. government of providing the service."

Is there a doctor onboard?: In-flight medical kits may not have everything a passenger could need in an emergency

Who is required to get a tourist visa to come to the US?

Visa requirements can change over time, and especially for visitors to the U.S., have gotten more stringent in recent decades.

"An average of two-thirds of the people around the world have to obtain a visa prior to departure. The terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, and more recent terrorist attacks worldwide, have changed the discourse of immigration and international tourism within Europe and North America," Pooneh Torabian, a lecturer in the Department of Tourism at the University of Otago's business school in New Zealand said in a statement. "Since Sept. 11, international travel has become more regulated in the name of safety and security, and international movement for ethnic minority citizens, specifically Arab and Muslim travelers, has been hindered."

'The space was not built for me': Plus-size flyers say airlines have room to improve

Bianchi agreed and pointed out that visa policies often reflect a country's broader geopolitical stances.

For example, soon after President Donald Trump took office, his administration enacted a ban on visitors from many Muslim-majority countries, a reflection of the president's immigration priorities. Even since President Joe Biden reversed that policy, however, advocates say little has changed in practical terms. 

"Quite often visa policies can be a reflection of bilateral diplomatic relations or a proxy for something else that's going on," Bianchi said.

Story continues below.

For visa applicants, Apakama said, the restrictions can feel like discrimination at a high level.

"Who are the folks that we as a country believe are going to contribute to the society and those who are not," she said.

Many applicants feel there's a human arbitrariness to the process too.

"My family members believe it’s whoever’s interviewing you that day and it’s just their mood," Apakama said. When the visa interviewer seemed grumpy, her family felt their applications faced more scrutiny and were more likely to be denied.

The U.S. has visa waiver agreements with 40 countries including the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and many European nations. Canadian citizens also usually do not need to apply for tourist visas to visit the U.S. Travelers using passports from countries not on the waiver list generally do need to apply for tourist visas before coming here. 

Even when a visitor has a visa, border guards have the discretion to turn them away at passport control. Apakama said she's had relatives who were denied entry after landing in the U.S. and put on flights back to Nigeria.

How long does it take to get a tourist visa for the US?

Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, U.S. embassies and consulates have been struggling to keep up with visa applications, and in some places, the wait time for an appointment is now longer than a year.

"It’s discouraging visitors," Calvert said. "All the hassle that travelers have to go through with the visa application process in this day and age, there could be some opportunities to bring the visa backlog numbers down."

The State Department's wait time calculator estimates that the consulate in Mumbai is now scheduling tourist visa appointments 848 days out, though the department says that extreme wait is an outlier. 

First look: American Airlines reveals new business class and premium economy seats

Welcome aboard: An early tour of KLM airlines' new Premium Comfort cabin

"We are reducing appointment wait times in all visa classes as quickly as possible, worldwide. In fact, visa processing is rebounding faster than projected, after a near-complete shutdown and freezing of resources during the pandemic," a spokesperson said. "The wait time for a routine visa appointment at half of our overseas posts is less than four months, and at some posts is far shorter than that. Applicants who have urgent travel needs and can apply away from their own home country should seek to do so."

Will US visas ever be easier to get?

Bianchi, from Manchester Metropolitan University, said visa policies are constantly in flux.

“There are tensions and conflicts within governments. They don’t work as a monolith," he said. “You’ll get the tourism industry in alliance with the tourism ministries, but the ministries of the interior, or in your case the Department of Homeland Security, will be very much in favor of tightening visas because their concern is security.”

Are airplane seats too small?: FAA soliciting public comments on minimum dimensions

That push and pull means making visas more accessible is usually a slow and contested process. In the meantime Calvert said, the U.S. will keep missing out on potential tourist dollars.

"I’m concerned about price as a barrier and these visa regulations," she said. "Travel shouldn’t be that difficult. How do we keep the world open?"

If you'd like to share your story of applying for a visa, please use this form.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

US Visa Application Fees – How Much Does it Cost to Apply

The United States government charges different fees for different visas

Applying for a visa to enter the United States typically costs money. How much is an American visa? The answer depends on the type of visa you’re getting. Some visas – like visas for victims of human trafficking – come with no fee whatsoever. Other visas – like a visa to enter the United States for business or pleasure – are priced at around $ 185 .

In addition to the application fee, some visas come with additional reciprocity fees. Certain countries pay reciprocity fees depending on their relationship with the United States. The principle of reciprocity fees is simple: because the U.S. charges, say, $ 160 to citizens of Nigeria wishing to visit the United States, Nigeria will charge U.S. citizens $160 to visit Nigeria. That’s how a reciprocity agreement works.

Both non-immigrant and immigrant visas come with application fees. Below, we’ll highlight fees for some of the most common and popular U.S. visas.

Fees for Non-Immigrant U.S. Visa Applications

There are dozens of types of non-immigrant U.S. visa applications. Different visas come with different fees. Generally, non-immigrant visas are priced at $ 185 for non-petition-based visas and $205 for petition-based visas. A petition-based visa is a visa where someone – like an American resident, citizen, or employer – is sponsoring your trip.

Non-Petition-Based Visas: $ 185

Petition-Based Visas: $205

E Visas: $315

K Visas: $265

Most visas fall under the “non-petition-based” category and are priced at $ 185 . These visas include all of the following:

• U.S. visitor visas, including B- 1 (business) and B- 2 (general travel) visa
• C- 1 visa for transit through the United States
• D visa for crewmembers of airlines and ships
• F visa for students, professors, and other academics
• I visa for media, press, and journalists
• J visa for visitors on a cultural exchange
• M visa for students undergoing vocational training or other schooling in the U.S.
• TN/TD visa for NAFTA professionals
• T visa for victims of human trafficking
• U visa for victims of criminal activity with unique knowledge that can bring those responsible to justice

A petition-based visa, meanwhile, may require information from an employer or someone in the United States. These visas typically come with more fees because the petitioner has to pay a fee as well. With a petition-based visa, your employer must submit a petition to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the U.S. Department of State, or the U.S. Department of Homeland Security prior to submitting your Form DS- 160 . The petitioner pays a fee to submit this petition. Fees vary according to your visa.

Generally, petition-based visas come with a fee of $205. This fee includes all of the following visas:

• H visas for temporary workers, including H- 1 B, H- 1 B 1 , H- 2 A, H- 2 B, H- 3 , and H- 4
• L visas for intracompany transfers, including L- 1 and L- 2
• visas for persons with exceptional abilities, including O- 1 , O- 2 , and O- 3
• P visas for athletes, entertainers, and artists seeking to perform in the U.S.
• Q visas for international cultural exchanges
• R visas for religious workers

In addition to petition-based visas and non-petition-based visas, other visas have unique fees. Other visa fees you need to know about include:

E- 1 , E- 2 , and E- 3 Visa: $315 application fee

Border Crossing Card for Citizens of Mexico: $ 185  (for applicants 15 years of age and older) or $ 13  (for applicants under age 15 )

L Visas and H- 1 B Visas: L visas and H- 1 B visas come with certain extra fees for certain companies. A company that has 50 or more employees, for example, with more than half of them being foreign workers may have to pay a $ 4 , 000 or $ 4 , 500 fee to file an L visa or H- 1 B visa.

Which Visas Are Free?

Certain U.S. visas come with no application fees. Generally, these visas are not for the ordinary public: these visas are for government workers, diplomats, and those on government-sponsored initiatives. U.S. entry visas that come with no fees include:

• Diplomatic and NATO visas including A, G, C- 2, and  C- 3
• J visas applicants who are sponsored by the U.S. government
• Applicants traveling for charity purposes
• Applicants traveling as part of international organizations, including the staff and family members of individuals working at the United Nations headquarters
• Foreign citizens employed by the U.S. government traveling for official business
• The family (parents, siblings, spouse, and children) of a U.S. government employee killed in the line of duty when the family is traveling to the U.S. to attend the funeral or burial
• Afghan or Iraqi special immigration applications (including for translators and other Iraqi or Afghan employees of the U.S. government)

You will also not pay a visa fee if you need to replace a machine-readable visa if the original visa was not sufficiently stamped and it was not the applicant’s fault. If the staff at the embassy mess up the stamping process, for example, then you might have your visa fee waived when replacing the visa.

U.S. Immigrant Visa Fees

Generally, immigrant visas are significantly more expensive than non-immigrant visas. More paperwork is required for an immigrant visa, and that means more costs along the way.

Part of the reason immigrant visas are more expensive is because both the petitioner (the U.S. citizen or permanent resident sponsoring your application) and the applicant need to pay visa fees.

Petition fees include the following:

Form I- 130 – Immigrant Petition for Relative: $ 530 USD

Form I- 600 or Form I- 800 – Petitions for Adoption: $ 775

Affidavit of Support: $ 120.

Processing fees, meanwhile, will be paid by the applicant in his or her home country. Here are some sample processing fees for typical immigrant visas (not including the petition costs):

Immediate Relative or Family Preference Immigration Application: $ 325

Employment Based Immigration Application: $ 345

Self-Petitioning Immigration Applications and Other Immigration Applications: $ 205

K Visa for a Fiancé or Spouse of a U.S. Citizen: $ 265

U.S. Diversity Visa Fees

The U.S. Diversity Visa system is a lottery-based system for those who want to immigrate to the United States. Applicants sign up for the U.S. Diversity Visa program every year. Then, the U.S. government decides how many winners will be selected. Applications are reviewed throughout the year, with a certain number of applicants being selected annually.

The U.S. Diversity Visa comes with a fee of $ 330 . This fee must be paid before you submit your application online.

Why Are U.S. Visas So Expensive? Why Do U.S. Visas Cost Money?

You might be wondering – why do I have to pay these fees? Why do U.S. visas cost money to begin with?

The answer is simple. It costs money for the United States to process visas. The United States recaptures those costs with visa fees.

The process of obtaining a visa requires you to interact with a website, an embassy, a consular officer, security personnel, background check systems, and other elements of the U.S. government. All of these elements cost money, and these costs are passed onto the visa applicant. Background checks, phone interviews, and personal appearances may also be required, increasing the costs at every step of the way.

One of the most frustrating parts about U.S. visa application fees is that they’re non-refundable. Even if your application is denied and you never visit the United States, you will not get a refund of your visa application . Consider it a donation to the U.S. government.

Unfortunately, there is no real way to avoid U.S. visa fees. Unless you’re from a Visa Waiver Program country or you meet one of the no-fee qualifications above, you’ll need to pay U.S. visa fees to gain entrance to the United States.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

An official website of the United States government

Here's how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock Locked padlock icon ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Visa Waiver Program and ESTA application

The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa.

Find out the requirements for ESTA

If you are a citizen of a country participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you must meet the eligibility requirements to travel to the U.S. under the program. You will also need authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before beginning your trip. Learn about the VWP and ESTA and if your country participates in the program.

How to request a travel authorization to the U.S. through ESTA

If you find out your country participates in the Visa Waiver Program:

Confirm that your passport meets the program requirements. You must have an  electronic passport or “e-Passport”  to participate in the VWP. This type of passport includes a chip.

Complete the  ESTA application  online.

Pay the fees: The total cost is $21. When you apply, you will pay a $4 processing fee. If you are approved to travel to the U.S., you must pay an additional $17 authorization fee.  Learn about the payment options available to pay ESTA fees.

When you complete and submit the form and processing fee, you will get an ESTA application number. Use that number to  check the status of your application . It may take up to 72 hours to find out if you are authorized to travel to the U.S. under the VWP.

Each approved ESTA application is generally valid for two years and allows multiple visits to the U.S. within that period without having to apply for another travel approval. If your passport expires in less than two years, you will receive an ESTA approval valid until the passport's expiration date.

When you travel to the U.S. for tourism or business under the VWP, you may stay up to 90 days per visit.

If you have questions about the ESTA and VWP application process, visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) FAQ page .

Other travel documents you will need to enter the U.S.

Even if you qualify for the VWP, you will need to bring a passport from your country of citizenship to enter the U.S. Generally, a visitor’s passport must not expire less than six months from the date they plan to exit the U.S. But some countries extend the validity of their passports for an additional six months after expiration. They are known as being part of the “Six Month Club.” Learn which countries are exempt from the six-month passport rule.

When you enter the U.S., officials at your port of entry will issue you a Form I-94W, an electronic record of your entry date. Learn more about I-94W and how to apply.

LAST UPDATED: July 19, 2024

Have a question?

Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

Visa application fees

1 select the country you are making your application from.

Change this answer

2 Select the visa category you would like to see fees for

3 select the visa type you would like to see fees for, standard visitor visa - for uk, isle of man, jersey and guernsey, short-term study visa, parents of children at school, child visitors.

Find out about visa application processing times

US Visa – How to Apply, Fees & Full Process

The United States, a popular destination for travelers, students, and business professionals, requires many foreign nationals to have a visa to enter its territories.

This guide is designed to simplify the US Visa process for you.

Apply Online

In this article…

Do you need a visa to enter the US?

Whether or not you need a visa to enter the US largely depends on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your visit.

Many countries are under the Visa Waiver Program, which allows citizens from these nations to enter the US for tourism or business purposes without a visa for up to 90 days.

💡 Tip: Buy travel health insurance before your trip.

Check out popular travel insurance plans and choose one that suits you.

Most plans only cost less than $20 a day.

Types of US Visas

The US offers a range of visa categories, including:

• Tourist or Business Visa (B1/B2) : For those visiting for leisure , medical treatment, or short-term business tasks.
• Student Visa (F, M) : For students attending US educational institutions.
• Work Visa (H, L, O, P, Q) : For individuals with a job offer from a US employer .
• Exchange Visitor (J) : For individuals participating in exchange programs.

How to Apply for a US Tourist Visa?

• Determine Your Visa Type : Understand the correct visa category based on your purpose of visit .
• Complete the DS-160 form : This is the Online Non-immigrant Visa Application form , available on the US Consulate’s website.
• Pay the Visa Application Fee : The fee varies depending on the visa type.
• Schedule Your Interview : Visa applicants, with some exceptions, are required to appear for a personal interview.
• Prepare for Your Interview : Gather the necessary documents , including passport, confirmation of DS-160 submission, payment receipt, photo , etc.
• Attend Your Visa Interview : A consular officer will interview you to determine your qualification for the visa.

US Visa Fees

The fee for a US visa varies depending on its type. For example, as of the last update:

• B1/B2 Visa: $160
• H, L, O, P, Q, and R category visa: $190 (Note: Fees are subject to change; always check the US consulate’s website for the latest fees)

US Visa Application Process & Requirements

You’ll typically need:

• A valid passport
• Passport-sized photos
• DS-160 confirmation page and code
• Application fee payment receipt
• Any additional documents required based on visa type (like employment proof, sponsor documents, etc.)

💡 Tip : Always check the specific requirements for your visa type on the official website of the US embassy or consulate in your country.

US Visa: Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who needs a US visa to enter the United States?

Anyone who isn’t a US citizen or permanent resident and isn’t from a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country will typically need a visa to enter the US.

2. What’s the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)?

VWP allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the US without a visa for stays of 90 days or less, when they meet certain requirements.

3. How long does it take to process a US visa?

Processing times vary by visa type and the country from which you’re applying. Check with your local US consulate or embassy for specifics.

4. How early should I apply for my visa before my travel date?

It’s advisable to apply at least 3-5 months before your intended travel date, considering potential processing times and any unexpected delays.

5. What is the DS-160 form?

DS-160 is the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form required for all nonimmigrant visa applicants.

6. Can I reschedule my visa interview?

Yes, but it might affect the processing time of your application. It’s best to stick to your original appointment if possible.

7. How long can I stay in the US on a B1/B2 visa?

Typically, the initial duration is up to 6 months, but it can be extended in 6-month increments with a maximum stay of one year.

8. Can I change my visa status while in the US?

Yes, but you must apply and get approval from USCIS before your authorized stay expires.

9. Is the visa application fee refundable if my visa is denied?

No, the application fee is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of the application.

10. Can I work in the US on a tourist visa?

No, a tourist visa does not allow you to take up employment. You’d need an appropriate work visa.

11. How can I bring my spouse or children if I have a US visa?

Depending on your visa type, your family might be eligible for derivative visas. Consult the US embassy for specifics related to your visa category.

12. What is the difference between visa expiration and the duration of stay?

The visa expiration is the last day you can use it to enter the US, while the duration of stay is how long you can remain in the US on that entry.

13. If my visa expires while I’m in the US, will I face penalties?

No, as long as you entered before its expiration and follow the duration of stay rules, which are typically indicated on your I-94 form.

14. Do previous visa denials affect my new application?

While each application is evaluated independently, previous denials can be considered in the context of new information.

15. Can I study in the US on a tourist visa?

No, if you wish to study in the US, you’d need to obtain a student visa (F or M).

16. What should I do if my passport with a valid US visa is lost or stolen?

Report the loss to your local police, obtain a police report, and apply for a new passport. You’ll also need to reapply for a US visa.

17. What are the chances of my visa being approved?

Approval is based on your specific circumstances, the evidence you provide, and the discretion of the consular officer.

18. How do I apply for a visa extension ?

You need to file a Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, with the USCIS.

19. What if I overstay my visa?

Overstaying can result in being barred from returning to the US for several years and might affect future visa applications.

20. Are there any age requirements for US visa applicants?

There aren’t specific age requirements, but applicants under 14 and over 79 years old are typically not required to attend an interview.

Always remember to check the official website of the US embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate and updated information.

• Mexico Visa – How to Apply, Fees, Full Process
• UK Visit Visa Fees & Cost
• Canadian Visit Visa Fees and Cost
• Switzerland Visa Fees and Cost
• How to Apply for Switzerland Visa

Apply Online easily.

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Select Your Language

Select your currency.

• AED United Arab Emirates Dirham
• AFN Afghan Afghani
• ALL Albanian Lek
• AMD Armenian Dram
• ANG Netherlands Antillean Guilder
• AOA Angolan Kwanza
• ARS Argentine Peso
• AUD Australian Dollar
• AWG Aruban Florin
• AZN Azerbaijani Manat
• BAM Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark
• BBD Barbadian Dollar
• BDT Bangladeshi Taka
• BGN Bulgarian Lev
• BIF Burundian Franc
• BMD Bermudan Dollar
• BND Brunei Dollar
• BOB Bolivian Boliviano
• BRL Brazilian Real
• BSD Bahamian Dollar
• BWP Botswanan Pula
• BZD Belize Dollar
• CAD Canadian Dollar
• CDF Congolese Franc
• CHF Swiss Franc
• CLP Chilean Peso
• CNY Chinese Yuan
• COP Colombian Peso
• CRC Costa Rican Colón
• CVE Cape Verdean Escudo
• CZK Czech Republic Koruna
• DJF Djiboutian Franc
• DKK Danish Krone
• DOP Dominican Peso
• DZD Algerian Dinar
• EGP Egyptian Pound
• ETB Ethiopian Birr
• FJD Fijian Dollar
• FKP Falkland Islands Pound
• GBP British Pound Sterling
• GEL Georgian Lari
• GIP Gibraltar Pound
• GMD Gambian Dalasi
• GNF Guinean Franc
• GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal
• GYD Guyanaese Dollar
• HKD Hong Kong Dollar
• HNL Honduran Lempira
• HTG Haitian Gourde
• HUF Hungarian Forint
• IDR Indonesian Rupiah
• ILS Israeli New Sheqel
• INR Indian Rupee
• ISK Icelandic Króna
• JMD Jamaican Dollar
• JPY Japanese Yen
• KES Kenyan Shilling
• KGS Kyrgystani Som
• KHR Cambodian Riel
• KMF Comorian Franc
• KRW South Korean Won
• KYD Cayman Islands Dollar
• KZT Kazakhstani Tenge
• LAK Laotian Kip
• LBP Lebanese Pound
• LKR Sri Lankan Rupee
• LRD Liberian Dollar
• LSL Lesotho Loti
• MAD Moroccan Dirham
• MDL Moldovan Leu
• MGA Malagasy Ariary
• MKD Macedonian Denar
• MNT Mongolian Tugrik
• MOP Macanese Pataca
• MUR Mauritian Rupee
• MVR Maldivian Rufiyaa
• MWK Malawian Kwacha
• MXN Mexican Peso
• MYR Malaysian Ringgit
• MZN Mozambican Metical
• NAD Namibian Dollar
• NGN Nigerian Naira
• NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba
• NOK Norwegian Krone
• NPR Nepalese Rupee
• NZD New Zealand Dollar
• OMR Omani Rial
• PAB Panamanian Balboa
• PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol
• PGK Papua New Guinean Kina
• PHP Philippine Peso
• PKR Pakistani Rupee
• PLN Polish Zloty
• PYG Paraguayan Guarani
• QAR Qatari Rial
• RON Romanian Leu
• RSD Serbian Dinar
• RUB Russian Ruble
• RWF Rwandan Franc
• SAR Saudi Riyal
• SBD Solomon Islands Dollar
• SCR Seychellois Rupee
• SEK Swedish Krona
• SGD Singapore Dollar
• SHP Saint Helena Pound
• SLL Sierra Leonean Leone
• SOS Somali Shilling
• SRD Surinamese Dollar
• SVC Salvadoran Colón
• SZL Swazi Lilangeni
• THB Thai Baht
• TJS Tajikistani Somoni
• TOP Tongan Pa anga
• TRY Turkish Lira
• TTD Trinidad and Tobago Dollar
• TWD New Taiwan Dollar
• TZS Tanzanian Shilling
• UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia
• UGX Ugandan Shilling
• USD United States Dollar
• UYU Uruguayan Peso
• UZS Uzbekistan Som
• VND Vietnamese Dong
• VUV Vanuatu Vatu
• WST Samoan Tala
• XAF CFA Franc BEAC
• XCD East Caribbean Dollar
• XOF CFA Franc BCEAO
• XPF CFP Franc
• YER Yemeni Rial
• ZAR South African Rand
• ZMW Zambian Kwacha

US Tourist visa fee (B1/B2)

The US Tourist (B1/B2) visa service is finally here for you to make the process fast and easy with our team of iVisa Experts, who will guide you throughout the entire application so you can avoid rejections.

The cost of obtaining a visa is usually a significant concern when you apply. The US Tourist visa fee (B1/B2) is no exception; this is a common concern. People often wonder what the total cost of the document is when applying.

To start your application with us, please follow the article below to begin your process to travel to the United States .

How much does a US Tourist Visa cost?

Securing a US Tourist Visa (B1/B2) is straightforward with us. The visa fee is USD $185.00 , though remember that this cost may fluctuate depending on your nationality. Depending on your nationality, payment can be made during the application process or at your interview.

Remember, having your application fee receipt when you attend your interview is crucial - it's essential to advancing your application!

Here's what your B1/B2 Visa fee covers: it includes the iVisa service fee. Our diligent team at iVisa will assist you with the necessary form and handle its processing, ultimately providing you with the US Tourist Visa (B1/B2) confirmation page.

To provide a more transparent breakdown, we usually offer three processing time options for our visa services. However, for the B1/B2 Visa, we offer a Standard processing time of 30 days . This includes our service fee of USD 149.99 on top of the government's Visa fee of USD $185.00 .

Ready to start your journey? Kick off your application with us today

Where can I find more information?

If you have more questions about the US Tourist visa (B1/B2) process, don't worry! Our customer service team is here for you 24/7 to answer your questions. Let's start your adventure to the U.S, make your first steps of the application with us!

iVisa recommends

Some of the best locations for tourists to visit are based on the geographical region they come from.

With so much to do and see, spending at least a week in this coastal city is easy. The same can be said for those from East Asia who will love traveling to Las Vegas. The Grand Canyon and Disney World are two must-see sights for those coming from South America.

One of the most popular tourist destinations for those coming from Europe is San Francisco. With so much to do and see, spending at least a week in this coastal city is easy.

Popular tourist attractions include The Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street (The Crookedest Street), Transamerica Pyramid, Chinatown, Cable Cars, and the famous Alcatraz Island.

Those coming from Eastern Asia may love traveling to Las Vegas. The Grand Canyon and Disney World are two must-see sights for those coming from South America. The Grand Canyon is one of the world's most visited natural attractions, with over four million people visiting annually.

Related Articles

Money blog: 'Foolish' rules encouraging builders to put smaller windows on homes being looked at by new government

Welcome to the Money blog, your place for personal finance and consumer news and tips. Today's posts include a look at junior ISAs and regulations that encourage builders to fit smaller windows. Listen to Ed Conway's analysis of UK borrowing and potential tax rises as you scroll.

Thursday 22 August 2024 06:47, UK

• 'Foolish' regulations encouraging builders to put smaller windows on homes being looked at by new government
• 'Concerning' practices by some major brands using loyalty schemes
• Listen to the Daily above and tap here to follow wherever you enjoy podcasts

Essential reads

• Savings account that could put your child on strong financial footing at 18 - here's what you need to know
• 'I cook with air fryer in living room after dream kitchen win went wrong'
• Cheap Eats : Top Yorkshire chef shares Yorkshire pudding secrets

Tips and advice

• How to get money back when purchase over £100 goes wrong
• 'Hack' can save you £75 on UK tourist site membership
• 'Should I top up my NI and could it really get me £6,000 extra?'

The new government is considering whether to scrap health and safety regulations that are seeing homebuilders shrink the size of windows, or put bars on them, to stop people falling out, the Money blog can reveal.

The rules, introduced in December 2021 by the Conservative government, are in the first instance designed to guard against "unwanted solar gains" - or, to put it another way, homes becoming too hot as the climate warms.

This, critics say, is resulting in builders installing smaller windows on new builds.

But they also require builders to account for safety - and so upstairs windows in new-build homes must now be at least 1.1 metres (3.6ft) from the floor.

Former minister Michael Gove launched a review of the rules - with the consultation concluding before the Tories lost power in July.

The new government has yet to make a decision.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government told the Money blog: "We have closed a call for evidence on building regulations and are considering the responses before we make our decision."

Earlier this year, Nicholas Boys Smith, chairman of the Create Street thinktank on urban design, told the Telegraph the "foolish" regulations have "incentivised the building of extremely small windows".

"People are not able to look out of their windows if they are sitting down," he said.

"This means, in a normal-sized suburban house, first-floor rooms are darker and less pleasant. 

"It's making it nearly impossible to create houses that fit in with their 20th century, Edwardian, Georgian or Victorian predecessors. The majority of England's most beloved buildings would violate these regulations."

For Savings Guide this week, Savings Champion co-founder Anna Bowes looks at the best junior ISAs.

Most parents want to ensure their children have a strong financial footing when they are older, and there are many ways to support them.

What you choose depends on what access you want your child to have, as well as the risk you are prepared to take, but starting as soon as possible can make a huge difference. As can choosing the most tax efficient options, and a junior ISA (JISA) is often the most obvious option.

A JISA is a tax-free savings account for both the parent and the child, so it can be an ideal account to place funds that you gift to your child.

Most children's savings account could have tax implications

Children have their own personal allowance, so for the majority there will be no tax to pay on their savings interest. However, parents should be aware that there may be a tax liability to themselves on the interest earned on any money they gift to their children, until they reach the age of 18.

If the total gross interest earned on all cash gifted by each parent is more than £100 per year, then all of it (not just the excess) will be treated as that parent's interest for tax purposes and therefore they may need to pay tax at their marginal rate - if it takes them above their personal allowance and/or personal savings allowance.

If the gross interest earned is less than £100 for each parent's gift, it is considered so minimal that parents do not need to declare it.

This is a key reason why parents may prefer to place money they gift to their children into a JISA – as this tax rule does not apply.

What about gifts from other family members or friends?

Gifts from any other family members or friends will not be viewed in the same way. Instead, any interest earned will be treated as belonging to the child themselves and therefore can be earned tax free if they are non-taxpayers.

Something that parents should remember is that while in the JISA, the funds cannot be accessed until the child becomes 18, but at that stage they will have unfettered access to the funds.

But they can also transfer their JISA into an Adult ISA to continue to receive tax-free interest/investment returns.

If you, your friends and family were able to gift a total of £9,000 a year to a child from birth (the current JISA allowance), at a rate of 4.95% (the current best JISA rate), you could give them more than £264,000 when they reach 18. Now that's a gift worth having!

Top JISA rates have so far been unaffected by the recent base rate cut, but they are variable rate accounts, so it's important to keep an eye on the rates being earned going forward to make sure your child continues to earn a competitive rate.

A number of supermarkets and health and beauty retailers have been carrying out "concerning" loyalty scheme practices, Which? has said.

This include prices being increased for a product before they are sold on "offer" to members at their original price, according to the consumer group's investigation.

For example, Boots sold an Oral-B iO7 electric toothbrush at a non-member price of £400, while the members' price was £150. 

However, the product had only been £400 for 13 days beforehand, prior to which it was £150 for everyone, Which? found.

Which? says its analysed the pricing history of almost 12,000 products at health and beauty retailers and supermarkets over the past year to uncover how genuine the loyalty savings have been.

It found that some products on a loyalty offer had been at its non-member price for less than half the year.

This applied to one in six Superdrug products and one in 10 at Boots.

In relation to supermarkets, it was 10% at Tesco, 5% at Sainsbury's and 3% at Co-op.

The consumer group said it believes its findings show why the guidance on how consumer law applies to pricing promotions needs to be updated to clarify how it applies to loyalty pricing.

It comes as the UK competition watchdog is currently analysing whether displayed savings are genuine.

Last month, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) was looking into whether non-member, or regular, prices may have been artificially inflated by supermarkets to make their loyalty prices appear more attractive, but its initial findings indicated retailers are unlikely to be misleading shoppers.

What have the supermarkets and retailers said?

A Superdrug spokeswoman said: "Our products are regularly on a mixture of members'-only prices, multibuy promos, and price promotions open to all, to ensure all our customers can make savings on their favourite products throughout the year.

"Every month we give our loyal Health & Beautycard members access to hundreds of health and beauty products at a lower price, and the investigation highlights the value this offers our members."

A Boots spokesman said: "We have always been committed to offering customers great value, helping them save money across their health and beauty needs.

"All promotions, including Price Advantage, are assessed against all applicable laws and guidelines set out by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute."

A Tesco spokesman said: "All our Clubcard Prices promotions follow strict rules, including considering how they compare against prices in the market, to ensure they represent genuine value and savings, and these rules have been endorsed by our Trading Standards Primary Authority."

A Sainsbury's spokesman said: "More people are choosing to shop at Sainsbury's and we know our customers are savvy shoppers, who understand that factors like inflation, products falling out of season, or promotions can affect our prices.

"That doesn't stop us following pricing guidance for the industry and offering great value on the products our customers buy most - whether that's with our Low Everyday Prices, Aldi Price Match or Nectar Prices."

A Co-op spokesman said: "We know our member prices provide true value for our members.

"No base prices have increased to accommodate Co-op member pricing and, in fact, many of the 'all-customer' prices were decreased to ensure Co-op was competitive on key lines for all shoppers, whether they are a member or not."

Parents with children turning 16 have until the end of the month to ensure they keep receiving child benefit.

The money may still be available to you if your child is in full-time education or training, but it's not automatic.

You need to let HM Revenue and Customs know whether this is the case by 31 August.

Training is limited to unpaid work and traineeships, and approved types of education do not include BTEC Higher National Certificate qualifications or a university degree.

The benefits will come to a stop once your child finishes their education at one of four points during the year nearest to that date: February, May, August or November.

Child benefit can be extended in some circumstances, such as if they join the armed forces.

Claiming the benefit has the added bonus of earning you national insurance credits to put towards your state pension if you are earning less that £123 a week.

Holland Barrett is trialling the world's first express DNA test service at some stores in the UK.

The retailer will offer customers on-the-spot genetic information for skincare and improved sleep in five stores across the UK, Retail Week reports.

Testing will involve a £30 cheek swab and results will be sent securely to a customer's smartphone in just 20 minutes. 

The service is being provided by medical and consumer genetics testing firm DnaNudge.

The stores where the testing will be available are in Chelmsford, Bluewater, Birmingham Bullring, Princes Street Edinburgh, and Queen Street Oxford.

A savvy loophole allows Britons to save £75 on both National Trust and English Heritage membership at the same time. 

The hack involves buying an annual Heritage New Zealand pass as an "overseas resident", which not only grants access to historical sites in New Zealand, but also the UK and other countries.

That's thanks to a "reciprocal agreement" with the National Trust and English Heritage that unlocks access to hundreds of their tourist hotspots.

Given the National Trust increased its prices by more than twice the rate of inflation (8.5%) this year, this saving hack is particularly helpful for those looking to purchase a membership.

UK residents can buy a non-Kiwi membership from Heritage New Zealand for just £128. Purchasing passes separately from English Heritage and National Trust combined would cost £163.20 – a difference of just over £35.

Savings become greater for families, with a New Zealand Heritage membership costing £210. For the two English Heritage and National Trust family passes, it would cost £285 - a £75 increase.

After signing up, your Kiwi heritage card will be sent in the post and you can show it upon entry at all English Heritage and National Trust sites.

However, the Kiwi card does not cover parking, meaning you will need to pay for this on the day.

Terms and conditions on the New Zealand Heritage website reveal that Wakehurst, Sussex, which is managed by the Royal Botanic Gardens, is the only National Trust-owned property where free entry is denied.

The Kiwi card also unlocks access to international heritage sites in Italy, Germany, Canada, and South Korea.

Waitrose has announced plans to open up to 100 new convenience shops over the next five years.

The shops will be the first openings in six years for the supermarket chain and are part of a £1bn investment.

The money will be spent on launching new stores and improving 150 existing shops - almost half of Waitrose supermarkets.

It is also transforming a store in London's Finchley Road to trial new services, product offerings and concept upgrades over the next year before a new blueprint for Waitrose shops is unveiled in 2025.

Waitrose customers can expect:

• More meat and fish counters
• Chilled beer and wine departments
• Collaborations with third parties such as Crosstown doughnuts

The chain also says it will respond to local demand. For example, "Finchley Road has given more space to top sellers including adding a second dry aged beef cabinet and dedicated parmesan section - 12% of Waitrose parmigiano counter sales come from the one store".

By  Sarah Taaffe-Maguire , business reporter

Too many insurance companies lack the systems to provide a good service for customers, the financial conduct regulator has said.  

Criticism of the price of insurance premiums prompted the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to pause the sale of some insurance products sold by certain firms. 

The regulator had concerns customers weren't getting fair value.

While progress is being made, the FCA says, it is "still seeing too many examples of insurers and brokers lacking the right information, governance, or oversight to ensure their customers get consistently good outcomes". 

If insurers can't prove products provide fair value, the FCA says it will "take appropriate regulatory action".

By Megan Harwood-Baynes, cost of living specialist 

It was the dream Facebook notification. 

In January 2021, Lorna Lyons was tagged in a post telling her she had won a £10,000 kitchen from The Range. 

With appliance and fittings included, the mum of three was excited to replace "the heart of the family home" after entering the giveaway. 

But three years on, their kitchen is condemned and the family cook their meals in an air fryer in the living room. 

What went wrong?

Issues arose from the very beginning, Ms Lyons says. 

First, she says, the designer tried to pressure her into accepting a white kitchen - something completely unpractical for the cooking fan in a household of three boys. 

"I told her I don't want to spend all day up to my armpits in bleach cleaning the kitchen," Ms Lyons, 43, told Sky News. Eventually, The Range Kitchens (at the time branded as Jonas & James) agreed to design her a navy blue kitchen. 

Then, she says, the designer measured wrong, with the wrong items being sent out - they were promised a dishwasher which didn't fit. When installing the kitchen in May 2022 (delayed due to the pandemic), she says the fitter damaged several drawers and doors, but while replacements were ordered, they never materialised.

Within a year, their brand-new hob had cracked, but after their pleas to The Range went unanswered they decided to order a new one themselves. But when it arrived, a different kitchen fitter refused to install it, telling them everything in the kitchen had been wired wrong and all the electrics were unsafe.

Instead of each appliance being housed within its own junction box, they were all taped together in one bundle.

I reached out to James Watkins, who posts on Instagram as Jimbo the Electrician, to see exactly what risks this could pose (he had no involvement in the installation - but gave me his expert opinion).

He told me: "So looking at the photo there are a few issues that I can see: Single insulated cables on show (Code 2 - potentially dangerous). No adequate enclosure with tape being used and terminals accessible without the use of a tool (Code 2).  Overall workmanship very poor."

This, he said, could potentially lead to an electric shock. 

Correspondence shared with Sky News shows Ms Lyons has repeatedly contacted The Range about the issues with her kitchen, but no solution has been forthcoming. 

"I am struggling mentally and emotionally, I am just drained. I feel as if I am getting nowhere," the NHS call handler said. 

Sky News contacted the Range about the issue. 

A spokesperson said: "We're sorry to hear that Ms Lyons is having an issue with her kitchen which was installed in good faith using an independent installer in 2022. 

"This issue has only just been bought to our attention and we plan to investigate the matter fully." 

But Ms Lyons says she has not heard from the company in more than two weeks.

What rights do competition winners have?

Generally speaking, if a contract is involved, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 gives people certain statutory rights when goods are supplied to them by a business. 

But, whether there is a contract will depend on the circumstances. If something is completely free, and the consumer doesn't have to give or do anything in return, then the Consumer Rights Act 2015 may not apply.

But if it does, under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 goods should be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and match their description. If a business also agrees to install the goods it is supplying or agrees to arrange for them to be installed as part of the contract, then it must ensure that the goods are installed correctly.

Where consumers' statutory rights are breached, someone may have a legal right to a solution under consumer law, such as a right to a repair or replacement. Depending on the circumstances, someone might be able to bring a claim under the general law for damage caused to their property (even if there isn't a contract), but they should seek independent legal advice before doing so.

Anyone who experiences an issues with the prize from an advert should speak to Citizen's Advice for further help.

One in four Britons fear they could be forced to turn off their heating and hot water this winter due to an expected rise in energy bills, a survey suggests.

The proportion who said they may be forced to take such action increased to 31% for households with children and 39% for bill payers on a low income, according to the survey from Citizens Advice.

The charity said it was helping record numbers of people with energy debt "even in the height of summer".

It warned that "without urgent intervention from the government, households will continue to face impossible choices and drastic cutbacks to be able to afford to heat their homes".

The survey found 48% of respondents said they would have to turn their heating or hot water down or off.

And 34% said they would have difficulty affording food or other essentials, such as their mortgage, rent or childcare - while 7% said they would be forced to skip meals.

Energy regulator Ofgem is set to confirm a new energy price cap for October to December on Friday - which experts predict will rise by 9%.

Citizens Advice said 7% of households (nearly five million people) are in debt to their energy supplier, a figure that rises to more than 14% of households with children under 18.

It said the predicted price cap increase of £150 would pull a further 187,000 people into a negative budget - equivalent to the population of Bournemouth.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Travel.State.Gov Newsroom

U.S. Passports News

International Travel News

U.S. Visas News

Intercountry Adoption News and Notices

Share this page:

Update on Change to U.S. Travel Policy Requiring COVID-19 Vaccination for nonimmigrant travel

Worldwide Visa Operations: Update

Employment-Based Fourth Preference (EB-4) Announcement

Suspension of Visa Services in Sudan

Diversity Visa 2024 Update

Nonimmigrant Visa Fee Increases to Take Effect June 17, 2023

India EB-3 Retrogression

Expiration of Covid-Era Visa Application Fee Receipts

Digital Visa Authorization (DVA) Proof of Concept

Final Rule Governing Public Charge Grounds of Visa Ineligibility

Visa Waiver Travel for Israeli Citizens

Important Update on Waivers of the Interview Requirement for Certain Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants

Department of State to Process Domestic Visa Renewals in Limited Pilot Program

Visa Information for Nationals of Haiti

Department of State/AILA Liaison Committee Meeting March 20, 2024

Easing the Nonimmigrant Visa Process for U.S. College Graduates

Diversity Visa 2020 and 2021 Update

Emami Litigation - Notice to Class Members

Annual Limit Reached in the EB-3 and EW Categories

Annual Limit Reached in the EB-5 Unreserved Category

On June 17, 2023, the nonimmigrant visa (NIV) application processing fee for visitor visas for business or tourism (B1/B2s and BCCs), and other non-petition based NIVs such as student and exchange visitor visas (F, M, and J visas), will increase from $160 to $185. The fee for certain petition-based NIVs for temporary workers (H, L, O, P, Q, and R categories) will increase from $190 to $205. The fee for a treaty trader, treaty investor, and treaty applicants in a specialty occupation (nonimmigrant E category) visa will increase from $205 to $315. NIV fees paid prior to June 17, 2023, will remain valid through the expiration date of the fee receipt.

NIV fees are set based on the actual cost of providing NIV services and are determined after conducting a study of the cost of these services. The Department uses an Activity-Based Costing (ABC) methodology to calculate, annually, the cost of providing consular services, including visa services. The fees for most non-petition based NIVs were last updated in 2012, and certain other visa fees were last updated in 2014.

This rule does not change any other fees, including the fee to apply for a waiver of the two-year residency requirement for certain exchange visitors, which remains at $120.

Fee information can be found on the Bureau of Consular Affairs website, https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/fees/fees-visa-services.html , and on the websites of U.S. embassies and consulates.

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit: