Quick Answer
The Visa Integrity Fee (VIF) is a $250 per-person surcharge that applies to most nonimmigrant US visa applicants under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R. 1, signed July 2025). It is paid at the US consulate on top of the standard $185 DS-160 MRV fee, bringing the total consular cost to $435 per person for common categories like B-1/B-2, F-1, H-1B, J-1, and L-1. The VIF is non-refundable even if the visa is denied, and it is charged again on each new application, including renewals. Diplomatic visa holders and certain exempt categories may not have to pay.
$250
Visa Integrity Fee (per person)
$185
Standard DS-160 MRV fee
$435
Total consular fee per person
None
Refund if visa is denied
VIF Total Cost Calculator
Calculate total visa cost including the $250 Visa Integrity Fee.
| Fee Item | Per Person | Total |
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What Is the Visa Integrity Fee?
The Visa Integrity Fee (VIF) is a $250 per-person surcharge established by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act signed into law in 2026. It applies to most applicants for nonimmigrant (temporary) US visas processed at US embassies and consulates around the world.
The VIF is paid in addition to the existing visa application fee (DS-160 MRV fee). For most visa categories, the standard DS-160 MRV fee is $185. With the VIF, the total consular fee becomes $435 per person.
Which Visas Are Affected?
| Visa Category | DS-160 Fee | VIF | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| B-1/B-2 (Tourist/Business) | $185 | +$250 | $435 |
| F-1 (Student) | $185 | +$250 | $435 |
| H-1B (Specialty Occupation) | $185 | +$250 | $435 |
| J-1 (Exchange Visitor) | $185 | +$250 | $435 |
| L-1 (Intracompany) | $185 | +$250 | $435 |
| Diplomatic / Exempt visas | Varies | Exempt | Varies |
This table is for general guidance only. Exemptions may apply. Verify with your local US consulate.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the $250 Visa Integrity Fee?
The VIF is a $250 per-person surcharge added to most nonimmigrant visa applications at US consulates under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R. 1, signed July 2025). It is in addition to the standard $185 DS-160 MRV fee.
Is the VIF a one-time fee or recurring?
The VIF is charged each time you apply for a nonimmigrant visa, including renewals. If you renew your visa in the same category in a future year, you would pay the VIF again.
Does the VIF apply to ESTA (Visa Waiver)?
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act also modified the ESTA fee. Check the current ESTA fee at esta.cbp.dhs.gov as it may be separate from the VIF structure.
Who is exempt from the VIF?
Diplomatic visa holders, certain exchange programs, and other categories specified in the law may be exempt. The specific exemption list is determined by the State Department. Verify with your local US consulate or embassy.