Effective April 13, 2012, visa processing fees at U.S. consular posts for several types of nonimmigrant and immigrant visa applications have changed. The fees for most nonimmigrant visa applications have increased, while those for all immigrant visa applications and "Treaty Investor" and "Treaty Trader" (E) nonimmigrant visa applications have decreased.
Specifically, the visa fee for petition-based nonimmigrant visas (H, L, O, P, Q, and R) has increased from $150 to $190, while the fee for employment-based immigrant visa applications has decreased from $720 to $405. The fee for E category nonimmigrant visas has decreased from $390 to $270.
Visa processing fees paid on or after April 13, 2012 are subject to the new visa processing rates. Applicants should be aware of three main payment scenarios:
1. Applicants who paid a nonimmigrant visa fee before April 13, 2012 are not required to pay the difference between the previous fee and the newly increased fee, as long as their visa interview takes place on or before July 12, 2012.
2. Applicants who paid a visa fee before April 13, 2012, but have a visa interview on or after July 13, 2012, must pay the difference between the previous and new fee amounts, with no exception.
3. Applicants who paid a visa fee before April 13, 2012, and that fee decreased, will not receive a refund.
Applicants attending visa appointments should be prepared to pay the new fees.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
