Published on, Aug. 31 -- August 31, 2025 5:53 PM

The United States has introduced a new $250 "visa integrity fee" for travelers from non-visa waiver countries, raising the total visa cost to $442, among the world's highest.

Overseas travel to the US dropped 3.1% in July compared to last year, marking the fifth monthly decline in 2025, despite earlier expectations that arrivals would finally surpass pre-pandemic levels.

The additional visa cost, which takes effect on October 1, will directly impact travelers from Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, India, and China, creating further barriers for millions of potential visitors.

Industry experts warn the fee will discourage travel, especially as international visitor spending in the US is already...