August 11, 2025
The US Visa Integrity Fee Is Here — What It Means for Canadian PRs and Foreign Nationals!”
A new U.S. immigration policy under the H.R.1 Act is set to affect thousands of individuals residing in Canada, including Canadian permanent residents (PRs) and foreign nationals. Signed into law on July 4, 2025, this legislation introduces a $250 Visa Integrity Fee for most non-immigrant visa applicants seeking entry into the United States.
If you are planning a U.S. visit for work, study, tourism, or family reasons, understanding this new visa fee and its implications is crucial to avoid surprises during your visa application process.
Who Must Pay the $250 US Visa Integrity Fee?
The Visa Integrity Fee applies to applicants seeking non-immigrant U.S. visas, such as:
- Tourist and Business visas (B-1/B-2)
- Student visas (F-1, M-1)
- Work visas (H-1B, H-4)
- Exchange visitor visas (J-1)
This fee specifically affects applicants from countries not included in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, such as India, China, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Brazil. Therefore, Canadian permanent residents or temporary residents holding citizenship from these countries will be required to pay this fee when applying for a U.S. visa.
What About Canadian Citizens?
Typically, Canadian citizens do not require a U.S. visa for short visits and are exempt from this fee. However, if applying for specialized non-immigrant visas like:
- H-1B (Work visas)
- F-1 (Student visas)
- E-1, E-2 (Trade and Investment visas)
- K-1/K-2 (Fiancé visas)
Who Is Exempt from This Fee?
- Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries (e.g., France, Germany, Japan, Australia)
- Canadian citizens not applying for a non-immigrant visa
Is the Visa Integrity Fee Refundable?
The legislation states the fee is non-waivable and non-reducible. However, applicants may be eligible for a refund if they:
- Fully comply with all visa terms
- Exit the U.S. within five days after the visa expires
- Avoid overstaying or applying for visa extensions
- Transition to permanent residency (green card) in the U.S.
Refund applications will be processed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Detailed refund procedures will be announced soon.
How This Affects Your U.S. Visa Application & Cross-Border Travel
This new $250 Visa Integrity Fee adds a financial layer to an already complex visa application process for Canadian PRs, foreign nationals, and specialized visa applicants. Preparing ahead by understanding these changes will help you navigate U.S. immigration policies effectively.
How MyWorld Immigration Can Help You Navigate Changing Immigration Rules
At MyWorld Immigration, we specialize in Canadian immigration and cross-border legal advice. Our experienced team understands the evolving U.S. and Canadian immigration landscape and offers personalized support to secure your future.
Our Immigration Services Include:
- Permanent Residency Applications — We assist with Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other PR pathways to ensure your application is strong and complete.
- Work and Study Permits — Whether you want Canadian work experience or to pursue education, we help you obtain valid permits that can lead to PR.
- Family Sponsorship — Reunite with your loved ones through our efficient family sponsorship services.
Whether you’re a foreign national, Canadian permanent resident, or citizen planning U.S. travel or settling in Canada, our knowledgeable consultants are ready to support you every step of the way.