Sweeping Changes to U.S. Visa Fees and Application Procedures
October 2025 marks a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy with multiple fee increases and procedural changes taking effect. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) implemented substantial fee hikes starting September 30, 2025, authorized by the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" (H.R. 1), while the Department of State introduced new restrictions on where visa applicants can submit their applications.
Major Fee Increases for Travelers
ESTA Fee Nearly Doubles to $40
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), required for travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries including most European nations, increased from $21 to $40 effective September 30, 2025. The new $40 fee comprises $17 for travel authorization processing, a minimum $10 statutory amount, and an additional $13 authorization fee. ESTA approvals remain valid for two years, but travelers who submitted applications before the deadline locked in the lower $21 rate.
I-94 Land Border Entry Fee Jumps 400%
Form I-94 arrival record fees increased dramatically by $24, bringing the total cost to $30 for anyone entering the United States at a land port of entry. Previously costing just $6, this represents a 400% increase. Foreign nationals arriving at air or sea ports of entry are not subject to I-94 fees and remain unaffected by this change.
New $30 EVUS Fee Introduced
The Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS), previously offered free of charge, now costs $30 for eligible nationals from the People's Republic of China holding 10-year visitor visas (B1/B2, B1, or B2). This new fee requirement adds an unexpected cost for Chinese business travelers and tourists.
All three fees—I-94, ESTA, and EVUS—will be indexed to inflation and increase annually starting in fiscal year 2026.
Visa Application Location Restrictions
As of September 6, 2025, the U.S. Department of State implemented a significant policy change requiring nonimmigrant visa applicants to schedule interviews at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of nationality or residence. This effectively eliminates the common practice of "visa shopping" or applying for U.S. visas in third countries.
Limited Exceptions Apply
The new restriction does not apply to diplomatic visa categories including A, G, C-2, C-3, and NATO visa applicants, as well as rare cases involving humanitarian, medical, or foreign policy considerations. However, the vast majority of tourist, business, and student visa applicants must now apply in their home countries.
Potential Delays and Challenges
Immigration attorneys warn that this change may result in longer appointment wait times at popular consular posts and create difficulties for travelers who frequently move between countries. Applicants are advised to check specific embassy websites for detailed procedures and allow extra time for scheduling interviews.
H-2A Agricultural Worker Processing Streamlined
Beginning October 2, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security implemented a new streamlined filing process for H-2A temporary agricultural worker petitions. Under the new rule, employers seeking unnamed beneficiaries can electronically submit Form I-129H2A after the Department of Labor accepts their temporary labor certification application but before final approval.
This change allows U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to begin processing petitions earlier while the Department of Labor reviews employment conditions to protect American workers. However, USCIS will not approve petitions until DOL completes its certification process. The new Form I-129H2A can only be filed online; paper submissions will be rejected.
Impact on Travelers and Businesses
These combined policy changes represent the most significant overhaul of U.S. visa procedures in recent years. Travelers should budget for higher costs when planning trips to the United States, while businesses employing foreign workers may face extended processing times due to new application location restrictions.
Action Steps for Travelers
- Budget for increased ESTA, I-94, and EVUS fees when planning U.S. travel
- Apply for visa renewals early to account for potential appointment delays
- Ensure applications are filed from your country of residence or nationality
- Check embassy-specific requirements before scheduling interviews
- Consider submitting applications before additional inflation-indexed increases take effect in fiscal year 2026
As these regulations continue to evolve, travelers and businesses should monitor official government websites for updates and consult with immigration attorneys for complex cases. The Department of State and CBP have indicated that further policy adjustments may be forthcoming as the administration continues to refine immigration procedures.