A new U.S. policy may affect thousands of individuals residing in Canada. Under the recently passed H.R.1 Act, the United States will introduce a $250 Visa Integrity Fee for most non-immigrant visa applicants. Signed into law on July 4, 2025, this legislation has major implications for Canadian permanent residents, foreign nationals, and even Canadian citizens applying for certain U.S. visas.
While the implementation date is expected later in 2025, understanding the new requirement is essential if you’re planning a U.S. visit for work, study, or family matters.
Who Needs to Pay the $250 US Visa Integrity Fee?
The Visa Integrity Fee will apply to individuals issued a non-immigrant visa to the United States. These include:
- Tourist and business visas (B-1/B-2)
- Student visas (F/M)
- Work visas (H-1B/H-4)
- Exchange visitor visas (J)
This fee affects applicants from countries not on the US Visa Waiver Program, such as India, China, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Brazil. If you’re a Canadian permanent resident or temporary resident holding citizenship from one of these countries, you will need to pay the fee.
What About Canadian Citizens?
In general, Canadian citizens do not require a visa to enter the United States and are exempt from this fee. However, those applying for specialized non-immigrant visas such as:
- H-1B (Work visas)
- F-1 (Student visas)
- E-1, E-2 (Trade/Investment)
- K-1/K-2 (Fiancé visas)
- A, G, NATO categories (Diplomatic/Official travel)
…will also need to pay the $250 Visa Integrity Fee.
Who is Exempt from the Fee?
- Visitors from Visa Waiver Program countries (e.g., France, Germany, Japan, Australia)
- Canadian citizens who are not applying for a non-immigrant visa
Note: Canada is not on the Visa Waiver Program list because Canadians typically do not require visas or an ESTA for short-term visits to the U.S.
Is the Fee Refundable?
The law explicitly states that this fee cannot be waived or reduced. However, you may be eligible for a refund under certain conditions:
- You comply fully with your visa terms
- You exit the U.S. within five days of your visa’s expiration
- You do not overstay or apply for a visa extension
- You transition to permanent residency in the U.S.
Applicants must file for reimbursement through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, though detailed refund procedures are yet to be announced.
Prepare for the Change
This fee is an added burden for applicants already navigating the complexities of cross-border travel. Planning ahead and understanding your options is crucial.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada
At ICC Immigration, we understand that changing immigration rules—whether Canadian or American—can cause confusion and stress. Our team of experts is here to help you make informed decisions for a secure and successful future in Canada.
Our Services Include:
1. Permanent Residency Applications
- Through Express Entry, PNPs, or other pathways, we guide you in submitting strong, complete applications to ensure timely processing.
2. Work & Study Permits
- Need to build Canadian experience? We assist with obtaining work permits and study permits, creating a pathway to permanent residency.
3. Family Sponsorship
- Want to bring your loved ones to Canada? Our family sponsorship services ensure you are reunited with your family with minimal delays.
4. Legal Immigration Advice
- With policies changing often, we provide accurate, current legal advice to help you avoid pitfalls and improve your chances of success.
Instead of relying on the uncertainty of asylum claims, choose a legal, secure route to your future in Canada. At ICC Immigration, we are committed to guiding you every step of the way.
Whether you’re already in Canada or planning your immigration journey from abroad, our dedicated professionals are ready to help you achieve stability, security, and the path to Permanent Residency.