How much does a tourist visa cost in the USA?

US Tourist Visa Fees Rise, Effective June 5th, 2023

The US government has announced an increase in fees for certain tourist visas, impacting travelers planning trips to the United States. Effective June 5th, 2023, the cost of B1/B2 visas, and other non-petition-based visas, will climb to $185. This marks a significant jump from the previous fee of $160.

This adjustment applies to individuals seeking to enter the US for tourism, business (B1), or both (B1/B2), as well as other non-petition-based visa categories. A petition-based visa, such as one for a specific job or family member, is subject to a different fee schedule.

While the increase might seem relatively small, it represents a tangible adjustment for travelers, particularly those applying for multiple visas or those planning multiple trips. The rise in fees comes at a time when global travel is experiencing a resurgence, potentially affecting the number of applications processed. The impact of this increase on the already complex visa application process warrants further consideration.

The US State Department has not yet released specific details regarding the justifications for the fee hike. This increase will undoubtedly be a factor in the travel planning of many international visitors, potentially prompting a reevaluation of travel costs and budget allocations. Those planning trips to the US after June 5th, 2023, are advised to factor this fee increment into their overall travel expenditure.