Do you dream of visiting the amazing landscapes, lively cities, and vibrant culture of the United States? This land of opportunity has in store a whole set of experiences for both tourists and business travelers. If you plan to visit the iconic Statue of Liberty, to take in the scenic beauty of the Grand Canyon, or attend a business conference in Silicon Valley, you’ll first need to apply for a USA visit visa. Understanding the costs of applying for a visa is one of the most critical parts of the application process. This is an all-inclusive guide to breaking down the cost so you don’t get caught up in a whirlwind of confusion.
Types of USA Visit Visas
Before moving into the fee structure, there are a few types of visit visas:
B-1 Visa (Business Visit Visa):
This visa is suitable for business visitors to the USA, such as holding conferences or negotiating contracts.
This visa allows visiting the country for business consultations and conventions and settling estates.
This visa does not allow any employment or working in the USA for some pay.
B-2 Visa. Tourist Visit Visa.
It is suitable for tourists, visiting friends and relatives, or going to the USA to take medial treatment.
Activities covered by this visa include tourism, vacation, visiting relatives, participating in social events, and undergoing medical treatment.
The Visa Application Fee
The first and foremost cost you’ll encounter is the visa application fee, also known as the Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee. This fee is mandatory for all visa applicants and is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Here’s the breakdown of the fees:
B-1/B-2 Visa Fee: Both business and tourist visit visas charge the same standard fee of $160. It can be paid in US dollars or in equivalent local currency.
Rate of Exchange Fluctuation: The rate can vary according to the prevailing rate of exchange at the time of making the payment; therefore, the rate applicable at the time of making the payment should be verified before making it.
Additional Charges
Depending on your nationality and specific circumstances, there might be additional fees that you will have to pay:
Reciprocity Fee:
Some countries require a reciprocity fee for visa issuance. The amount varies with the nationality and visa type. For instance, if your country charges US citizens a visa fee, you might have to pay the same when applying for a US visa.
The reciprocity fee can be anywhere from $15 to $300 or more, depending on the agreements between the US and your home country.
SEVIS Fee:
If you are applying for a student (F or M) or exchange visitor (J) visa, you will need to pay a separate SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee. This fee supports the system that tracks international students and exchange visitors in the US.
The SEVIS fee is $350 for F and M visas and $220 for J visas.
Expedited Appointment Fee:
In cases of urgency, if you require an expedited visa appointment, there might be an additional fee for the service. Availability and cost for expedited appointments vary from one embassy or consulate to another.
Payment Methods
The fee for the visa application can be paid in different ways depending on the country where you are applying. Here are some common payment options:
Online Payment:
You can pay the fee online using a credit card or other electronic payment methods through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website.
After payment, print the receipt and keep it as proof of payment for your visa interview.
Cash Payment:
In some countries, you can make a cash payment at designated banks or payment centers. You will receive a payment receipt, which you must bring to your visa interview.
Bank Transfer:
Some embassies or consulates allow bank transfers as a method of payment. Ensure you follow the specific instructions provided on the embassy or consulate website.
Steps to Pay the Visa Fee
To help you make your way through the payment process easily, here’s a step-by-step guide:
Create a CEAC Account:
Visit the CEAC website and create an account. If you already have an account, log in with your credentials.
Fill Out the DS-160 Form:
Complete the DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application form online. Make sure that all the information provided is correct and current. Once submitted, you will get a DS-160 confirmation page with a barcode.
Choose Your Payment Option:
Select your preferred payment method, whether online, cash, or bank transfer, and then follow the instructions to make the payment.
Schedule Your Visa Interview:
After paying the fee, schedule your visa interview appointment at the nearest US embassy or consulate. You will need the DS-160 confirmation page and the visa fee payment receipt to book the appointment.
Tips for a Successful Application
Be Prepared: Prepare all the necessary documents and receipts for payment in advance before filling out the application.
Stay Informed: The US Department of State or the embassy/consulate websites should be visited frequently to stay updated on the changes in the visa application process and the fees.
Keep Copies: Photocopies of all the receipts for payment and other important documents should be maintained.
The importance of knowing the fees involved in securing a USA visit visa cannot be overstated to ensure a seamless application process. From the usual fee applied to the issuance of a visa to other surcharges such as reciprocity and SEVIS, the knowledge will help avoid any surprise fee and prepare you financially. If you follow these steps and are organized, you will be successful in your quest for a USA visit visa and set out on your exciting journey in the United States.
Good luck with the travel plans and have a safe trip to the USA!
