The cost of a U.S. visa depends on the category of visa you apply for. Each type of visa has its own non-refundable application fee, which must be paid before scheduling your visa appointment. These fees are set by the U.S. Department of State and are subject to change. Local-currency payment amounts and payment methods may vary by country and appointment system.
Below is a general overview of common U.S. visa fees for 2026. Applicants should check the official U.S. Department of State fee schedule before paying.
Non-Immigrant Visa Fees (2026)
Visa Type
Purpose
Fee (USD)
B-1/B-2
Business, tourism or medical treatment,
$185
F-1/M-1
Academic or vocational student
$185
J-1
Exchange Visitor
$185, unless a fee exemption applies
H, L, O, P, Q, R
Petition-based visa categories
$205
E-1/E-2
Treaty Trader / Treaty Investor
$315
Additional U.S. Visa-Related Fees
Some applicants must pay additional costs depending on their visa type or nationality:
- SEVIS I-901 Fee: Generally $350 for F and M students and $220 for most J exchange visitors, although some J categories or U.S. Government-sponsored programmes may have different rules or no fee.
- Reciprocity Fees: May apply for certain countries based on visa issuance agreements.
- USCIS Premium Processing: Optional expedited processing for certain USCIS petitions or applications, separate from the Department of State visa application fee. From 1 March 2026, the premium processing fee is $2,965 for many Form I-129 and Form I-140 requests, with different fees and processing periods for some categories.
How to Pay Your U.S. Visa Fee
Payment methods vary by country and appointment system. Follow the payment instructions on the official visa appointment website for the U.S. embassy or consulate where you apply.
You must keep your payment receipt to schedule your interview appointment.
For details, see: U.S. Visa Appointments (2026).
Refunds and Validity
U.S. visa application fees are non-refundable, even if:
- Your application is refused
- You withdraw your application
- You miss your scheduled appointment
Fee validity and rescheduling rules depend on the appointment system and country where you apply. Check the official appointment website before paying or rescheduling.
Tips for Paying Your Visa Fee
- Ensure the name on your payment matches your DS-160 application.
- Save the payment confirmation number — it’s required for appointment booking.
- Check current exchange rates when paying locally in non-USD currencies.
Related Guidance
- How to Submit a U.S. Visa Application (2026)
- U.S. Visa Appointments (2026)
- U.S. Visa Decisions (2026)
- U.S. Visa Refusals (2026)
People Also Asked
How much is a U.S. visa fee in 2026?
The common non-petition-based nonimmigrant visa application fee, including B-1/B-2, F-1, M-1 and most J-1 visas, is $185. Petition-based visa categories such as H, L, O, P, Q and R are $205, and E-1/E-2 visas are $315.
Can I get a refund if my visa is refused?
No. All U.S. visa fees are non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of your application.
How long is the visa fee valid?
Fee validity and rescheduling rules depend on the appointment system and country where you apply. Check the official appointment website for your location.
Can I pay my U.S. visa fee online?
Can I pay my U.S. visa fee online? Payment methods vary by country and appointment system. Follow the payment instructions on the official visa appointment website for the U.S. embassy or consulate where you apply.
Are there extra charges for faster processing?
USCIS premium processing is available for certain petitions or applications and is separate from the Department of State visa application fee. From 1 March 2026, the fee is $2,965 for many Form I-129 and Form I-140 requests, with different fees for some categories.
About This Page
Author: Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor.
Last Updated: November 2025