The cost of obtaining a visa in the United States will rise for a number of categories starting on May 30, 2023, according to an announcement. In order to reflect the increased expenses of processing visa applications and related consular services, the fee modification was made.
The application price for U.S. visiting visas and other non-petition-based NIVs (nonimmigrant visas) would increase from $160 to $185 under the amended pricing structure. Visas for travel, business, and medical purposes are all included in this category.
The application fee for petition-based visas, including H, L, O, P, Q, and R visas, will rise from $190 to $205. These visas are often requested by people with specific abilities, those moving to work for a U.S. corporation, or those taking part in cultural exchange programs.
Additionally, the cost of applying for an E-visa, which is intended for treaty traders and investors, will rise significantly from $205 to $315.
Why Increase in US Visa Processing Fee?
It is significant to highlight that the fee adjustments are purely intended to preserve the effectiveness and quality of consular services offered by the U.S. government and will have no effect on the time it takes to process visas.
In similar news, the US stated earlier this month that it will no longer require visitors to the country to present documentation of a current, complete COVID-19 vaccination in order to board aircraft.
This action attempts to ease travel while upholding necessary health and safety standards.
These recent events serve as a reminder of the U.S. government’s ongoing attempts to modify its visa requirements in response to changing traveler needs and strike a balance between facilitating legitimate travel and reducing administrative costs.
To read our blog on “UAE opens Asia’s 1st largest visa centre in KHI,” click here.
