U.S. Tourist Visa Fee to Increase by Over 135%

Darwin, August 25 — The fee for U.S. tourist visas (B1/B2) is set to increase starting October 1. The proposed $250 hike was included in the “Big Beautiful Bill,” passed by the U.S. Congress last month under pressure from President Donald Trump.

According to USA Today, the current visa fee of $185 will rise by an additional $250, making the total cost $435. This is an increase of over 135%. In Bangladeshi currency, this amounts to approximately 53,000 Taka.

The U.S. Department of State stated that the new fee was initially planned to take effect from 2026. However, under U.S. law, the new fiscal year begins on October 1, making it likely the fee will be implemented then. If that happens, it would become the highest tourist visa fee in the world.

U.S. officials have mentioned that the fee might be refundable, but no framework or timeline for refunds has yet been determined. What is certain is that the cost of traveling to the United States is about to rise significantly.

USA Today gave an example: if a family of five plans to visit the U.S., they would now have to pay around $2,000 just for visa fees — nearly 250,000 Bangladeshi Taka. Essentially, this move seems intended to discourage tourist visa applications.

The report also noted that the visa fee hike won’t only affect vacationing tourists. It could also have an impact on major global events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

For ordinary visitors and athletes from lower-income countries, this fee could pose a serious barrier — potentially preventing many from attending or participating in these major sporting events due to financial constraints.