US tourist visa fees from India

US Tourist Visa Fees from India – Complete B1/B2 Visa Cost Guide (2026 Update)

If you’re planning a trip to the United States—whether it’s for tourism, visiting family, or short-term business—it’s important to clearly understand the US tourist visa fees from India before you apply. The U.S. tourist visa, commonly known as the B1/B2 visa, comes with a fixed application fee. However, recent announcements indicate that this cost is expected to increase significantly from 2026.

In this guide, we explain the current US tourist visa fees from India, upcoming changes, details about the new Visa Integrity Fee, how to make payments, and answers to the most common questions Indian applicants usually have.

What Is the US Tourist (B1/B2) Visa?

The US tourist visa (B1/B2) is a non-immigrant visa issued to people who wish to travel to the United States for a short duration.

• B1 is intended for limited business-related activities such as meetings or conferences
• B2 is meant for tourism, visiting family or friends, or medical treatment

In most cases, applicants from India are issued a combined B1/B2 visa, which may be valid for up to 10 years, depending entirely on the decision of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Current US Tourist Visa Fees from India (Before 2026)

At present, the US tourist visa fees from India are as follows:

• B1/B2 Tourist or Business Visa Fee: $185 USD
• Approximate cost in Indian Rupees: ₹15,000 to ₹16,000, depending on the exchange rate

It’s important to note that this fee is:

• Non-refundable
• Non-transferable
• Mandatory before scheduling biometrics and interview appointments

Even if the visa application is refused, the fee paid is not returned.

US Tourist Visa Fees from India Starting 2026 – Major Increase

From January 1, 2026, the US tourist visa fees from India are expected to rise sharply due to the introduction of an additional charge known as the Visa Integrity Fee.

New Expected Fee Structure (From 2026 Onwards)

• B1/B2 Visa Application Fee: $185 USD
• Visa Integrity Fee: $250 USD (new and non-refundable)
• Total Estimated Cost: $425 to $472 USD
• Approximate cost in Indian Rupees: ₹36,000 to ₹40,000

This means that Indian applicants may end up paying more than twice the current visa fee if they apply from 2026 onward.

What Is the New $250 Visa Integrity Fee?

The Visa Integrity Fee is a newly introduced mandatory charge that applies to most non-immigrant U.S. visas, including tourist visas.

Here are a few key points to understand:

• It is compulsory
• It is non-refundable
• It is charged in addition to the standard visa fee
• It applies even if the visa is refused

The purpose of this fee is to strengthen compliance and maintain integrity within the U.S. visa system.

Why Applying in 2025 Can Save You Money

If you’re already planning a visit to the United States, applying before the fee increase can make a noticeable difference in overall cost.

Simple Cost Comparison

• Applying in 2025: Around $185 (₹15,000–₹16,000)
• Applying in 2026: Around $425–$472 (₹36,000–₹40,000)

This means you could save ₹20,000 or more per person by applying earlier.

This is especially helpful for:

• Families applying together
• Parents visiting children in the U.S.
• First-time applicants

How to Pay US Tourist Visa Fees from India?

The US tourist visa fees from India must be paid before booking any appointments.

Accepted Payment Methods

• Online payment using debit or credit cards
• Internet banking
• Other payment options provided on the official U.S. visa appointment portal

Once the payment is successfully completed:

• You can schedule your VAC (biometrics) appointment
• You can book your visa interview

Always keep a copy of the payment receipt, as it is required during the visa process.

Is the US Tourist Visa Fee Refundable?

No. The US tourist visa fee is strictly non-refundable, regardless of:

• Visa approval
• Visa refusal
• Interview waiver outcomes

This applies to both the existing visa fee and the newly introduced Visa Integrity Fee.

US Tourist Visa Validity vs Fees – Clearing a Common Doubt

Many applicants assume that paying a higher fee increases the chances of getting a longer visa validity. This is a common misunderstanding.

• Visa fees do not guarantee approval
• Paying more does not ensure a 10-year visa
• Visa duration is decided solely by the consular officer

While many Indian applicants do receive long-term visas, each case is assessed individually.

People Also Ask – US Tourist Visa Fees from India

What is the cost of a US tourist visa from India?

Currently, the US tourist visa fee from India is $185 USD. From 2026, the total cost may increase to around $425–$472 USD due to the addition of the Visa Integrity Fee.

How can you get a 10-year US tourist visa?

There is no separate application for a 10-year visa. The validity is granted at the discretion of the U.S. Embassy based on your profile and interview assessment.

How do you pay B2 visa fees in India?

The B2 visa fee can be paid online through the official U.S. visa appointment portal using approved digital payment methods.

What is the new $250 visa fee for non-immigrant travelers?

The $250 Visa Integrity Fee is a mandatory, non-refundable charge introduced for most non-immigrant U.S. visas, including tourist visas, starting in 2026.

Important Tips for Indian Applicants

• Always refer to the official U.S. Department of State website for the latest updates
• Apply early to avoid higher visa costs
• Complete fee payment correctly before scheduling appointments
• Avoid relying on unofficial or unverified sources

Staying informed helps you plan better and avoid unnecessary stress.

Conclusion

Understanding the US tourist visa fees from India is a crucial part of preparing for your B1/B2 visa application. While the current fee of $185 USD is still applicable, the expected increase from 2026—due to the Visa Integrity Fee—will significantly raise costs for Indian travelers.

If visiting the U.S. is already on your list, applying early can help you save a substantial amount. Being well-informed, preparing your application carefully, and following official guidelines can make the entire visa process much smoother.