Planning a trip to the United States? Whether you dream of studying at a top university, landing a job with a global company, or simply exploring the American way of life, securing the right visa is your first step.

For Indian applicants, understanding the U.S. visa fees structure in 2025 is essential to avoid surprises and ensure a smooth application process.

The average U.S. visa fee for Indians is around $180, but it can vary depending on the visa type. In this detailed guide, we break down the components of US visa fees, explore the key factors that affect them, and help you avoid common pitfalls.

Whether you're applying for a US tourist visa, student visa, or work permit, here's everything you need to know.

Understanding the Types of U.S. Visas

Before diving into the actual fee breakdown, it's important to understand the different types of U.S. visas and what each is intended for.

This helps determine the exact US visa fees and any additional charges. Whether you're applying for work, education, tourism, or cultural exchange, here's a brief overview:

  • B1/B2 (Business/Tourist Visa): Primarily for short-term business trips or tourism, this is the most commonly applied for category. The US tourist visa fees fall under this bracket.
  • F & M Visas (Student Visas): For academic (F) and vocational (M) students looking to study full-time in the U.S.
  • J Visa (Exchange Visitor): Designed for scholars, interns, au pairs, and other cultural exchange programs.
  • H, L, O, P, Q Visas (Work Visas): Petition-based visas for specialised workers, intra-company transfers, entertainers, athletes, and cultural exchange workers.
  • R-1 Visa (Religious Worker): For those employed by non-profit religious organisations in the U.S.
  • C, D Visas (Transit/Crew Member): Issued to airline and ship crew members or travellers passing through the U.S.
  • I Visa (Media/Journalists): For foreign media representatives on assignment.
  • B-1 Domestic Employee Visa: For personal/domestic employees accompanying foreign employers.

U.S. Visa Fees Breakdown for Indians (2025)

U.S. visa fees are charged based on the type of visa you're applying for. The fee primarily covers the processing of your application and is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome.

Below is a quick breakdown of common non-immigrant U.S. visa categories and their corresponding visa application fees:

Visa TypeFee in USDApprox. Fee in INR
B1/B2 (Business/Tourist)$185₹15,655
F, M (Student Visas)$185₹15,655
J (Exchange Visitor Visa)$185₹15,655
H, L, O, P, Q (Work Visas)$190₹16,078
R-1 (Religious Worker)$190₹16,078
C, D (Transit / Crew Member)$185₹15,655
I (Media and Journalist)$185₹15,655
B-1 (Domestic Employee)$185₹15,655


Note: These amounts are calculated at the current exchange rate. Since fees are charged in USD, INR equivalents may vary.

Factors That Affect the U.S. Visa Fees

While visa types have fixed application fees, the total US visa fees you end up paying can vary due to several external factors:

1. Type of Visa:

  • Non-immigrant visas (B1/B2, F1, etc.) have fixed base fees.
  • Petition-based visas (H, L, etc.) may require additional USCIS petition processing fees.

2. Exchange Rate Fluctuations:

  • Since all fees are charged in USD, the INR amount you pay depends on the daily exchange rate.

3. Reciprocity Fees:

  • Some applicants may be required to pay an additional reciprocity fee, depending on India’s diplomatic agreement with the U.S.

4. Service Charges:

  • If you're applying through third-party visa service providers, additional convenience or handling charges may apply.

5. SEVIS Fee (For F, M, and J Visas):

  • $350 for F/M visas
  • $220 for J visas

6. Petition Filing Fees:

  • Certain work visa categories require employers to file petitions with the USCIS, which come with their own fee structures.

Refund Policy

Understanding the refund policy is crucial before you make a payment:

  • Non-Refundable: U.S. visa application fees are non-refundable, even if your visa is denied or your travel plans change.
  • Validity: Once paid, your fee is valid for one year from the payment date.
  • Rescheduling Allowed: If you miss an appointment, you can reschedule within the validity period without paying again.
  • No Transfers: Visa fee payments are not transferable to another person.

How to Calculate the Total Visa Cost

The visa fee is just one part of the total cost. Here are other components to consider when calculating your total US visa fees:

1. Visa Application Fee:

  • Flat base fee based on the visa category.

2. SEVIS Fee:

  • Applicable only to F, M, and J visa categories.

3. USCIS Petition Fees (If Applicable):

  • Applies to H, L, O, P, and Q visa categories.

4. Third-party Service Charges:

  • Varies depending on the service provider (e.g., form filling, appointment scheduling).

5. Medical Examination Charges:

  • Required for immigrant visa categories or long-term stay visas.

6. Courier & Document Delivery Charges:

  • Sometimes required for receiving your passport or supporting documents.

7. Travel Costs to Embassy/Consulate:

  • You might need to travel to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, or Kolkata for biometrics and interviews.

Estimated Total Range: Depending on your visa type and service preferences, the US tourist visa fees for Indians (B1/B2) could range between ₹15,500 to ₹50,000, including third-party assistance and expedited processing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Paying U.S. Visa Fees

Avoid these mistakes to prevent delays, rejections, or forfeited fees:

1. Using Unauthorised Payment Methods:

  • Always pay through the Consular Electronic Application Centre (CEAC) or authorised partners.

2. Mailing Payments:

  • Do not send checks or demand drafts by post. Payments must be made online.

3. Ignoring Payment Confirmation:

  • Always verify the payment status before proceeding with your DS-160 form or visa interview.

4. Providing Incorrect Details:

  • Mismatched passport numbers or application IDs can delay your processing.

5. Delaying Payments:

  • Fee payments must be completed promptly to schedule appointments within the time.

6. Not Checking Exchange Rates:

  • Since payment is in USD, the INR equivalent can change. Always check the current rate.

7. Multiple Payments:

  • Avoid paying the same fee multiple times unless instructed. Duplicate payments are not refunded.

How to Stay Informed About Fee Changes

Visa fees typically don’t change frequently, but they can be revised without much notice. Here’s how to stay informed:

  • Bookmark Official Sites:
  • Visit travel.state.gov and your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate website.
  • Subscribe to Alerts:
  • Many visa support platforms offer newsletters or email alerts.
  • Follow Social Media Handles:
  • U.S. embassies in India often announce changes via Twitter or Facebook.
  • Consult Visa Experts:
  • Platforms like Visa2Fly offer real-time updates and expert guidance.

Impact of U.S. Visa Fees on Visa Approval Chances

A common myth is that paying a higher visa fee increases your chances. That is not true.

  • Equal Opportunity: All applicants are evaluated based on intent, documentation, financial stability, and ties to their home country.
  • No Influence from Cost: Officers do not consider how much you paid or through which service you applied.
  • Genuine Case Matters: A strong, well-prepared application has a higher chance of success.

Why Choose Visa2Fly?

At Visa2Fly, we simplify your visa process from start to finish. With transparent pricing, document verification, and end-to-end support, we help you avoid the stress and increase your chances of success.

What We Offer:

  • Dedicated visa experts
  • Real-time application tracking
  • Affordable documentation and processing packages
  • Customer support via chat, email, and phone

FAQS

Q1. What are the US visa fees for Indians in 2025?

The standard US visa fees for Indian applicants vary by visa type. For instance, the US tourist visa fees (B1/B2 category) are $185 or approximately ₹15,655. Work and religious visas cost slightly more at $190 (around ₹16,078).

Q2. Are US visa fees refundable if the application is denied?

No. All US visa fees are non-refundable, regardless of whether your visa is approved or denied. It's crucial to ensure accurate documentation and payment from the start.

Q3. What happens if I need to reschedule my visa interview?

If you reschedule your appointment within the one-year validity of your original fee payment, you do not need to repay the fee.

Q4. Apart from the visa fee, what other expenses should I plan for?

In addition to the base visa application fee, consider expenses like SEVIS fees (for F, M, J visas), medical examinations, service charges, courier fees, and travel to the U.S. embassy or consulate. This could bring the total US tourist visa fees up to ₹50,000.

Q5. Where can I pay my US visa fees from India?

Indian applicants can pay the US visa fees online via NEFT, IMPS, or using a bank challan through approved partner banks. Always retain your receipt as proof of payment.

Q6. Can US visa fees change in the future?

Yes, visa fees are periodically revised based on policy changes, inflation, or exchange rate fluctuations.

Stay updated by regularly checking the U.S. Embassy India website or consult with platforms like Visa2Fly for real-time information.

Top Tourist Attractions in the U.S.

While you're calculating your US tourist visa fees, it's equally exciting to plan your American adventure.

From iconic landmarks to natural wonders, the United States offers a treasure trove of experiences for every kind of traveller:

  • Statue of Liberty (New York): A universal symbol of freedom and democracy.
  • Grand Canyon (Arizona): Breathtaking views and hiking trails.
  • Disney World (Florida): Perfect for families and kids.
  • Golden Gate Bridge (San Francisco): A marvel of modern engineering.
  • Times Square (New York): The ultimate urban experience.
  • Las Vegas Strip (Nevada): Dazzling nightlife and entertainment.

Planning what to see is just the start. Don’t forget to explore our blog on Things to Buy from the USA so you can make the most of your shopping spree while you’re there!

Final Thoughts

Understanding the US visa fees in 2025 is essential for Indian travellers aiming to visit, study, or work in the United States.

From the base application fee to SEVIS and service charges, multiple elements shape the final cost.

While the US tourist visa fees may seem straightforward, a well-informed and careful approach ensures a smoother journey to your American dream.

Let Visa2Fly handle the complexity, so you can focus on planning your new adventure.