The US government is considering introducing a new “Visa Integrity Fee” for international travelers. Under the proposal, certain categories of foreign nationals applying to the US would be charged an additional $250.
The new fee will primarily apply to citizens of countries outside the Visa-Exchange Program, which covers 42 countries, and could come into effect on October 1, 2025.
Tourism and sports organizations say the move could dampen future travel to the United States, especially during major events such as the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games.
Experts believe that the introduction of the duty, in addition to increasing airfare and hotel prices, could also negatively affect the competitiveness of the United States in the international tourism market.