Planning to study in the US? Understanding the visa process is a crucial first step, and for Indian students, this involves navigating the costs associated with the US study visa. Let’s break it down: when applying for a US visa, you’ll need to pay the non-refundable Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee.
This fee is a must for everyone, including children, and it’s required even if your visa application isn’t approved. Here’s an interesting fact: The number of US study visas issued to Indian students has steadily increased. From over 96,000 in 2021 to 133,000 in 2022 and more than 140,000 in 2023, it’s clear that more Indian students are pursuing their education from top universities in the US. This growing trend highlights the importance of being well-prepared for the visa process, including understanding the fees involved.
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Types of Visa Fees for the USA
In the United States, different non-immigrant visas come with varying costs. For Indian applicants, it’s important to differentiate between non-petition-based visas and petition-based ones to get a clearer picture of the expenses involved. Non-petition-based visas, such as those for tourism or business, have their own set of fees, while petition-based visas, often for work or study, can involve additional costs. By understanding these distinctions, Indian students and professionals can better estimate the US visa fees and plan accordingly for their trip to the US.
Non-Petition Based US Visa Fees for Indians
Non-petition-based visas do not require an employer or a US resident to petition for a person who intends to enter the US for a limited period. The candidate can apply for a non-immigrant visa by filling out Form DS-160 and following the regular processes for paying a fee, scheduling an interview, submitting supporting papers and sitting for the interview.
Here’s a breakdown of the non-petition-based US visa fees for Indian citizens:
| Visa Name | Fees |
|---|---|
| B-1 (Business) and B-2 (Tourism) Visa | $185 (INR 15.5K) |
| C-1 Visa (Transit) | $185 (INR 15.5K) |
| D Visa (Crew) | $185 (INR 15.5K) |
| F Visa (Student) | $185 (INR 15.5K) |
| I Visa (Media) | $185 (INR 15.5K) |
| J Visa (Exchange Visitor) | $185 (INR 15.5K) |
| M Visa (Vocational Student) | $185 (INR 15.5K) |
| TN TD Visa (NAFTA Professional) | $185 (INR 15.5K) |
| T Visa (Human Trafficking Victim) | $185 (INR 15.5K) |
| U Visa (Crime Victim) | $185 (INR 15.5K) |
Understanding the US visa fees for Indians is crucial for budgeting and planning your visa application process. Depending on your specific situation and visa type, additional costs may arise, such as administrative fees, biometrics fees, or visa issuance fees. Always check the latest updates from official sources to ensure you have the most current information.
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Petition Based US Visa Fees for Indians
Petition-based visas are designed for individuals who wish to live and work in the United States temporarily, typically requiring a U.S. employer or citizen to sponsor their application. Before an applicant can file Form DS-160, their sponsor must first submit a petition to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the U.S. Department of State, or the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Here’s a breakdown of the petition-based visa fees for Indians:
| Visa Name | Fees |
|---|---|
| H-1B Visa (Temporary Worker) | $205 (INR 17.2K) |
| H-1B1 Visa (Temporary Worker) | $205 (INR 17.2K) |
| H-2A Visa (Temporary Agricultural Worker) | $205 (INR 17.2K) |
| H-2B Visa (Temporary Non-Agricultural Worker) | $205 (INR 17.2K) |
| H-3 Visa (Trainee) | $205 (INR 17.2K) |
| H-4 Visa (Spouse of H Visa Holder) | $205 (INR 17.2K) |
| L-1 Visa (Intracompany Transfer) | $205 (INR 17.2K) |
| L-2 Visa (Spouse of L-1 Visa Holder) | $205 (INR 17.2K) |
| O-1 Visa (Extraordinary Ability) | $205 (INR 17.2K) |
| O-2 Visa (Accompanying Alien) | $205 (INR 17.2K) |
| O-3 Visa (Spouse of O-1 Visa Holder) | $205 (INR 17.2K) |
| P Visa (Athlete, Entertainer, or Artist) | $205 (INR 17.2K) |
| Q Visa (International Cultural Exchange) | $205 (INR 17.2K) |
| R Visa (Religious Worker) | $205 (INR 17.2K) |
| E-1 Visa (Trader) | $315 (INR 26.5K) |
| E-2 Visa (Investor) | $315 (INR 26.5K) |
| E-3 Visa (Australian Trader) | $315 (INR 26.5K) |
| K Visa (Fiancé or Spouse of US Citizen) | $265 (INR 22.3K) |
Understanding these fees is essential for those considering petition-based visas to budget effectively and prepare for the visa application process. Remember, additional costs may apply depending on the specific requirements of your visa type, so it’s always best to consult official sources for the most up-to-date information.
Other Categories Visa
Other Categories and Fees should always be paid in addition to the petition and non-petition-based non-immigrant visas, such as:
- Issuance of Nonimmigrant Visas (Reciprocity Fees)
- Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)
- Blanket L Fee (Fraud Prevention and Detection Fee)
After their application is granted, applicants from certain countries may be asked to pay a visa issuance fee. These charges are founded on reciprocity fees (what another country charges a US citizen for a similar visa).
Reciprocity Fees
This fee is based on reciprocity—if a country charges US citizens for a visa, the US will impose a similar fee on applicants from that country.
SEVIS Charges
For F, M, and J visa holders, there’s an additional SEVIS fee. For students with Form I-20, this fee is $350 (INR 29,298). Exchange visitors with Form DS-2019 need to pay $220 (INR 18,466). Payments are not accepted at the Consulate or Embassy. However, if you’re part of a government-sponsored program (with codes G-1, G-2, G-3, or G-7), you’re exempt from this fee.
Blanket L Visa Applicants
If applying for a Blanket L visa, there’s a $500 (INR 41,990) Fraud Prevention and Detection fee for first-time applicants. This fee must be paid at the consular section’s cashier window on your interview day. If you’re applying for an L-1 visa using a new Form I-129S, the fee will need to be paid again.
- Fees for Biometric entering and exiting
- Blanket L Fees are Non-Refundable. L-2 Derivative Applicants are exempt from the higher fees.
For petitioners with any more than 50 US employees, with over half of those employees in H-1B or L status, a $4,500 fee is added to blanket L-1 applications.
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Options of Payment Methods for Visa Fees USA
The Visa Fee can be paid at US consulates worldwide through various options. The following payment options are available:
- Demand Draft (payable at par in favour of ‘US Embassy’)
- Indian Rupees or Dollars using a credit card (Master or Visa)
- Please note that personal cheques are not accepted
Cases When Fees are Not Necessary
You may not be required to pay a charge in the following circumstances:
- When applying for visas such as the A, G, C-2, C-3, NATO, and diplomatic
- In the case of a US government-sponsored J visa applicant
- When the original visa was poorly stamped, and it was not the applicant’s fault, a machine-readable visa must be replaced
- Applicants who are part of international agreements, such as UN Headquarters employees and their families
- Applicants who are travelling to raise funds for a good cause
- Travelling on official business for US government workers
- For the parents, siblings, spouse, and children of a US government employee murdered in the line of duty whose family is travelling to attend the funeral or burial
How to decide the right US visa?
Choosing the right US visa can feel overwhelming, but it really comes down to what you’re planning to do. If you’re aiming to study at one of the top universities or taking up a specific course, the F-1 visa is your best bet for academic programs, while the M-1 visa suits vocational studies. Planning to join an exchange program or dive into research? The J-1 visa is what you’ll need.
If working in the US is your goal, the H-1B visa is a popular choice, especially in fields like IT or engineering. And if you’ve just graduated from a US university, you can gain work experience through the OPT (Optional Practical Training) program while staying on your F-1 visa. For aspiring entrepreneurs or investors, the E-2 visa might be the way to go.
The key is to match your visa choice with your goals. Whether you’re focused on landing a job, extending your studies, or building a career, picking the right visa now can make all the difference. Remember, each visa type has its own requirements and fees, so it’s important to do your homework and choose what aligns with your dreams.
Conclusion
Navigating US visa fees can seem overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. With LeapScholar’s expert counselling, you’ll receive tailored support throughout your study abroad journey. Our experienced team will help you decode the various visa fees, ensuring you understand each cost involved and how to handle currency conversions seamlessly.
Beyond just understanding fees, our comprehensive support covers every aspect of your application, from choosing the right visa to preparing for interviews and beyond. With LeapScholar, you can focus on your studies and future goals while we care for the details. Reach out today to confidently start your journey, and let us help turn your dream of studying in the US into a reality!
Suggested read: UK vs USA for Indian Students: Universities, Courses & Cost of Living
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much is the US visa fee in India?
Ans. The US visa fees for Indian applicants vary depending on the visa type. For non-immigrant visas, the fee is generally $185 (approximately INR 15.5K). Petition-based visas, such as H-1B, cost $205 (INR 17.2K), while others, like the E-1 visa, can be as high as $315 (INR 26.5K). It’s essential to check the specific fee for your visa category before applying.
Q. Can I get a 10-year visa for the USA?
Ans. Yes, Indian citizens can apply for a 10-year multiple-entry B1/B2 visa for the USA. This visa allows you to travel to the US for business (B1) or tourism (B2) purposes. Although the visa is valid for 10 years, each stay in the US is typically limited to six months. Approval is based on the consular officer’s discretion during your visa interview.
Q. How much is the B1 and B2 visa fee?
Ans. The US visa fee for both B1 (Business) and B2 (Tourism) visas is $185 (approximately INR 15.5K) for Indian applicants. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid before scheduling your visa interview. It’s important to keep in mind that the fee applies regardless of whether your visa application is approved or denied, so plan accordingly.
Q. How to pay US visa fees?
Ans. To pay the US visa fees in India, you can use multiple methods such as online banking, NEFT, or cash payment at designated bank branches. After paying, you’ll receive a receipt with a unique receipt number, which is necessary to schedule your visa interview. It’s crucial to ensure that the payment is made in full and before the visa appointment is scheduled.
Q. What is Form I-20 in a US Visa?
Ans. Form I-20 is an essential document for students applying for an F or M visa to study in the US. Issued by a US educational institution, it proves your acceptance into a program. This form also includes your SEVIS ID, which is needed to pay the SEVIS fee. You must present Form I-20 during your visa interview and when entering the US.
Q. What is the validity of the counsellor fee?
Ans. The consular fee, also known as the Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee, is valid for one year from the date of payment. This means you must schedule your US visa interview within this period, or the fee will expire, and you’ll need to pay again. It’s crucial to plan your application timeline carefully to avoid additional costs.
Q. Can US visa fees be paid on any date of the month?
Ans. Yes, US visa fees can be paid on any date of the month. There’s no restriction on the payment date, but it’s important to ensure that the payment is completed before scheduling your visa interview. Once the payment is made, you will receive a receipt, which must be used within one year to book your appointment.
Q. What if an error occurs while paying US Visa fees online?
Ans. If an error occurs while paying US visa fees online, it’s important not to attempt multiple payments. First, check if the amount was deducted from your account. If it was, wait for up to two business days for the system to update. If the issue persists, contact the customer service of the payment provider or the US Embassy for assistance.
Q. How can a student get a visa for USA?
Ans. To get a student visa for the USA, first, apply and be accepted into a SEVP-approved school. After receiving Form I-20, pay the SEVIS fee, and complete the DS-160 form. Schedule and attend a visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate, where you’ll present your I-20, passport, financial documents, and proof of intent to return to India. Upon approval, you’ll receive your visa.
Q. Can I reschedule my US visa appointment after paying the fee?
Ans. Yes, you can reschedule your US visa appointment after paying the fee. However, you must reschedule before your current appointment date and within one year of paying the consular fee. There is a limit to the number of times you can reschedule, so it’s essential to choose a new date carefully. Ensure your payment receipt remains valid throughout the process.
Q. What documents are required for a US visa interview in India?
Ans. For a US visa interview in India, you typically need the following documents: a valid passport, DS-160 confirmation page, visa appointment confirmation, MRV fee payment receipt, Form I-20 (for students), financial documents, and a passport-sized photo. Depending on your visa type, additional documents like employment letters, invitation letters, or proof of ties to India may also be required. Ensure all documents are current and accurate.
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