Don't Blame This Fee on Vegas!
Yes, some tourists coming to Las Vegas, after September 30, will encounter a new fee, and it's not a cheap one.
Starting on October 1, travelers who need a non-immigrant visa to enter the U.S. might have to pay a new "visa integrity fee" of at least $250. This fee is in addition to the standard visa fees you already have to pay. For example, if you're a student or a worker, your total visa costs could increase significantly.
I guess this is one of those "sharing the pain" moments. Las Vegas isn't the only tourist destination that will feel the effects of this new fee. Other cities across the country are also expected to be hit hard, which is especially concerning for places like Las Vegas, where tourism is already experiencing a slowdown.
Who has to pay this fee?
Tourists
Business travelers
International students
Who is exempt?
The Visa Integrity Fee is intended to address visa over-stays. The Visa Integrity Fee does not apply to individuals who are visa-exempt, such as Canadian nationals or nationals of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries who are required to apply for Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). However, any fees associated with the ESTA application will still be applicable. According to the OBBBA, the Visa Integrity Fee will be refunded to applicants at the expiration of their visa period, provided they have demonstrated compliance with the visa terms.
When and How Do You Pay?
You'll pay this new fee at the time your visa is issued, so you'll need to include it in your budget when you apply for your visa. This fee doesn't replace any other fees; it’s an extra charge.
Also, be aware that the Form I-94 fee (which is for certain types of U.S. admissions) is also increasing from $6 to $24. So, the total amount of money you need for all your visa-related paperwork is going up.
Can You Get a Refund?
Yes, you can get the money back, but there are rules you have to follow. You can be reimbursed when your visa expires if you:
Don't stay longer than your visa allows (by more than 5 days).
Don't take a job in the U.S. without permission.
As long as you follow the rules of your visa, you should be able to get a refund. However, it's not yet clear exactly how you'll apply for the refund or how long it will take.
Why is the U.S. doing this?
The U.S. government says this new fee is to help improve the security of its immigration system. They are also preparing for a lot more visitors coming for big events like the FIFA World Cup and the 250th anniversary of the U.S.
For a family of four, this could mean an extra $1,000 in visa fees alone. This new cost will make some people rethink their travel plans, especially tourists and students from countries that aren't in the Visa Waiver Program.
Even though this new law is set to start soon, the exact timing for when the fee will actually be collected is still a little unclear.
Experts say the government will need to announce more details before they can start collecting it.
Would this new fee change your plans to visit the U.S.?
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