On May 30, 2023, the United States government will increase the fee for visitor visas for business or tourism (B1/B2) and other non-petition-based NIVs (Nonimmigrant Visas), such as student and exchange visitor visas, from $160 to $185. This means that anyone who wishes to travel to the United States on a visitor visa for business, tourism, or study purposes will have to pay the new fee.
The increase in visa fees is part of the government’s efforts to fund the US visa system and to provide better services to applicants. The US Department of State has stated that the increase in fees will help to cover the costs of providing visa services, including the cost of staffing consular posts, operating facilities, and providing security for applicants.
It is important to note that the fee increase will only apply to non-petition-based NIVs. Petition-based visas, such as H-1B visas for skilled workers, will not be affected by this fee increase.
For those planning to apply for a non-petition-based NIV visa, it is important to be aware of this fee increase and plan accordingly. Applicants should also know that the visa application process can take several weeks or months, so applying well before the intended travel dates are advisable.
In addition to the visa fee increase, there may also be other requirements for obtaining a US visa, such as providing documentation of financial support, demonstrating ties to the home country, and undergoing a visa interview. Applicants should carefully review their visa category requirements and consult with a qualified immigration attorney if they have any questions or concerns.
Overall, the fee increase for non-petition-based NIVs is necessary to ensure the US visa system’s continued operation and provide better services to applicants. It is important for those planning to travel to the United States to be aware of this change and to plan accordingly.
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News Source:
https://www.state.gov/publication-of-final-rule-on-nonimmigrant-visa-fee-increases/
https://in.usembassy.gov/visas/
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