US Visa Fees Rise: Impact on Indian Travelers

• US visa fee increased to ₹20,300, plus ₹20,500 integrity fee in 2026.
• H1-B and F-1 visa in-person interviews are mandatory from Sept 2, 2025.
• Some visa categories may still qualify for interview waivers; check eligibility.

Planning a trip to the US? Get ready for some significant changes in visa fees and interview processes. This article provides vital information for Indian travelers applying for a US visa.

Visa Fee Hike Alert

The US tourist visa fee has jumped from approximately ₹15,300 to ₹20,300. Adding to this, a new 'Visa Integrity Fee' of USD 250 (around ₹20,500) will be implemented from 2026. This could push the total cost close to ₹40,800 for Indian applicants, so plan accordingly! It’s a tough time for travel budgets.

Interview Rule Changes

Starting September 2, 2025, in-person interviews will be mandatory for H1-B and F-1 visa applicants. This means more preparation and potentially longer processing times. Keep this date in mind while preparing your travel itinerary, as it could impact your plans. Time to brush up on those interview skills!

Waivers Still Available?

Fortunately, some visa categories like A-1, A-2, C-3, G-1 to G-4, NATO-1 to NATO-6, and TECRO E-1 may still be eligible for interview waivers. Check if your visa type falls under this category. For those lucky ones, it's a simpler process. But always double-check the latest updates!