The U.S. travel industry has raised concerns that a new $250 visa integrity fee could deter millions of international visitors ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Summer Olympics. The fee will apply to most non-immigrant visa applicants, including tourists, students, and temporary workers, in addition to the existing $185 visa cost. Exemptions apply to nationals from the 42 countries in the Visa Waiver Program. The Congressional Budget Office projects the measure will generate $28.9 billion between 2025 and 2034, with amounts tied to inflation. U.S. Travel Association CEO Geoff Freeman called it “a cynical junk fee that attempts to steal money from travelers” and said it could cost a family of four $1,000, money that “otherwise would have been spent in U.S. businesses.”
International visits to the U.S. remain below pre-pandemic levels, down 5% in June 2025 compared to the previous year. The fee’s start date is not confirmed, though immigration attorney Laura Wong expects it to take effect on October 1, 2025. Starting August 20, 2025, a 12-month pilot program will require some travelers from countries with high overstay rates to post refundable bonds of up to $15,000. Industry leaders warn the measures could push travelers to choose other destinations.