Why You Shouldn’t Delay the US Visa Application Process

Starting in 2026, the United States will introduce a new $250 fee for non-immigrant visa applicants, known as the Visa Integrity Fee. This measure, part of the "One Big Beautiful Bill" legislation, will affect popular visa categories, including tourist, student, and work visas.

Against the backdrop of stricter immigration controls by USCIS and enhanced border checks, it has become clear: starting the US visa process sooner rather than later is the smarter choice.
In this article, we break down what will change, what new requirements are coming, how they will impact applicants, and why delaying could cost you more.

From 2026, all non-immigrant visa applicants — except diplomats — will be required to pay a new $250 fee. This applies to:

• B-1/B-2 visas (tourist and business);
• F and M visas (student visas);
• H-1B and J visas (work and exchange).

The official rollout is planned for 2026, and according to the law, the fee may increase annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This creates a long-term financial obligation for applicants.

💡 Refunds are possible, but not automatic — you will need to prove full compliance with all visa conditions.

Example: For Indian citizens, the cost of a B-1/B-2 visa will increase from $185 to $472 due to the new fee and other mandatory charges.

• Students — may reconsider studying in the US due to higher costs.
• Employers — could face challenges in attracting foreign specialists.
• Tourists — will need to factor additional costs into their travel budgets.

The higher fees are expected to create an additional barrier, especially for applicants from lower-income countries.

In recent years, USCIS has tightened requirements and strengthened oversight of the visa application process. This is due to rising cases of fraud and the need to protect the domestic labor market.

To successfully obtain a visa now, it is critically important to:

• complete all forms accurately;
• provide transparent and truthful information;
• fully comply with visa conditions.

Recently, CBP officers have been granted the authority to inspect foreign nationals’ mobile devices without a warrant.

⚠ Refusing access can result in denial of entry.
Moreover, any content on your device — messages, photos, notes — can be interpreted as a security concern.

Recommendation: review your devices in advance and be prepared to explain the content stored on them.

From September 2, 2025, most non-immigrant visa applicants — including those applying for extensions — will be required to attend in-person interviews with a consular officer.

Starting August 20, 2025, a pilot program will launch:

• For B1/B2 visas, applicants from certain countries may be required to pay a bond of $5,000 to $15,000;
• Consular officers will determine the amount based on the applicant’s country risk level;
• Funds will be refunded only if the applicant departs the US on time via an approved airport and complies with visa terms.

📌 Currently, the countries in the highest-risk category ($15,000 bond) are Malawi and Zambia.

Some may believe these changes won’t affect them. However, the pace of change in US visa and immigration policy raises the question: what new restrictions might be introduced next?
The sooner you start the application process, the higher your chances of applying under the current, more favorable rules — and at a lower cost.

The introduction of the new fee, rising visa costs, stricter controls, and new border measures all make obtaining a US visa more complex and expensive.

To avoid unnecessary expenses and surprises:

1. Start your visa application early.
2. Prepare a complete document package according to the new requirements.
3. Consult professionals who are familiar with the latest rule changes.

Visa Dan provides full support for visa applications, including guaranteed visas even after previous refusals, as well as residency permits and citizenship in popular countries, including the United States.

💬 If you are considering moving to the US or planning a trip — contact us. We will find the optimal path, prepare your documents, and see the process through to success.

📩 Book a consultation: https://t.me/visa_dan