Visa Application Fees in 2025
Get the scoop on USA visa application fees for tourists, students, workers, and more. Plan your budget and apply with confidence!
Author Name: Cosmina B
Planning to apply for a USA visa in 2025? Whether you're looking to visit, work, or study in the USA, understanding the visa application fees is an essential part of your planning process. The fees can vary depending on the type of visa you're applying for, and sometimes they can even change from year to year. So, how much should you budget for your visa application in 2025? Let’s break it down so you're prepared!
Why Are Visa Application Fees Important?
Visa application fees are a necessary part of the USA immigration process. They’re the cost you pay when submitting your visa application, and the fees help cover the administrative costs of processing your application. While they can feel like a big expense, it’s important to remember that these fees are an investment in your future plans to live, work, or study in the USA
The good news is that knowing what to expect in 2025 can help you plan your budget in advance and avoid any surprises along the way. So, let’s dive into the different visa types and their corresponding fees!
Types of USA Visas and Their Fees in 2025
1. Tourist Visas (B-1/B-2)
The classic tourist visa, which is used for people visiting the USA for tourism, business meetings, or medical treatment, typically carries a fee of $185. This fee covers the processing of your application and your visa interview at the USA embassy or consulate.
It’s important to note that this fee is non-refundable, even if your visa application is denied. So, make sure you’re ready and have all your supporting documents in place before paying!
2. Student Visas (F-1, M-1)
For those looking to study in the USA, the F-1 visa (for academic students) or the M-1 visa (for vocational students) will cost you $185 as well. Just like the B-1/B-2 visa, this fee is for processing your visa application and scheduling your interview.
In addition to the application fee, F-1 and M-1 visa applicants may also need to pay the SEVIS fee (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System), which is $350 for F-1 students and $220 for M-1 students. The SEVIS fee helps maintain the system that tracks international students and exchange visitors in the USA
3. Work Visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1, etc.)
Work visas can range in price, but generally, the H-1B visa (which allows you to work in specialty occupations) comes with a fee of $190 for the application. However, depending on the employer and company size, there may be additional fees associated with the H-1B process, such as the American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act fee and the fraud prevention and detection fee.
For L-1 visas (intra-company transferees) or O-1 visas (for individuals with extraordinary abilities), the fees can range between $190 to $325. Be sure to double-check the exact fee with your employer, as they might have additional costs for visa processing.
4. Exchange Visitor Visas (J-1)
If you’re planning to go to the USA on an exchange program (like for a study abroad experience, an internship, or a work-and-travel program), you’ll need to apply for a J-1 visa. The application fee for J-1 visas is typically $160. Like the F-1 visa, some J-1 applicants might also need to pay the SEVIS fee, which is $220 in most cases.
Need Help with Your Visa Application?
The visa application process can be overwhelming, especially with all the paperwork, forms, and fees to manage. If you’re feeling a little lost or uncertain about the process, StayLonger is here to help! Our team of immigration experts is ready to assist you with everything from understanding the fees to ensuring your application is completed accurately.
Ready to get started? Schedule a free consultation with one of our immigration specialists today, and let’s make sure your visa journey is smooth and successful!
