How much does a 10-year US visa cost?

Decoding the Cost of a 10-Year US B1/B2 Visa: More Than Just a Number

The allure of a 10-year US B1/B2 visa is undeniable. Imagine the freedom: multiple entries, six-month stays per visit, for tourism or business – all encapsulated in a single, convenient application. But before you start dreaming of American adventures, there’s a crucial element to understand: the cost. And it’s not a single, universally applicable figure.

The price tag for this coveted visa isn’t a fixed amount; it’s highly dependent on your nationality. The US government sets a non-refundable application fee, also known as the visa application processing fee or MRV fee (Machine Readable Visa fee). This fee covers the administrative costs associated with processing your application. However, this base fee is only one component of the overall expense.

The Variable Factor: Reciprocity and Your Nationality

The real cost variability comes from a concept called reciprocity. The US government sets visa fees based on a principle of reciprocity – mirroring the fees charged by other countries for US citizens applying for visas in those countries. This means that a citizen of a country that charges a high fee for a US visa might, in turn, face a higher fee when applying for a US visa themselves.

This explains why an Indian applicant, for example, might encounter a significantly higher fee than someone from another country. There’s no single, readily available online resource providing a complete list of fees for every nationality. The correct fee for your specific citizenship must be obtained directly from the US embassy or consulate in your country. Their official website will usually have a fee schedule or a contact method to obtain the precise amount.

Beyond the Application Fee: Other Potential Costs

While the MRV fee is the primary cost, several additional expenses might arise:

• Visa Application Center Fees: Some countries require applicants to submit their applications through a Visa Application Center (VAC). These centers charge additional fees for services such as appointment scheduling and document handling.
• Courier Fees: You might choose to use a courier service to expedite the return of your passport once your application has been processed. This adds another layer of cost.
• Travel Expenses: Don’t forget the cost associated with traveling to the embassy or consulate to submit your application. This can range from local transportation to international flights, depending on your location.

In Conclusion:

The question, “How much does a 10-year US B1/B2 visa cost?” doesn’t have a simple answer. The application fee itself varies significantly based on your nationality, and other costs, such as VAC and courier fees, should also be factored in. To determine the precise cost, visit the official website of the US embassy or consulate in your country. Only then can you accurately budget for this valuable opportunity to travel to the United States repeatedly over a decade.