US Visa B1/B2 Fees – Complete Guide to Costs, Payment & Process (2025)

Introduction to B1/B2 Visas and Fee Structure

The B1/B2 visa is one of the most common non-immigrant visas for individuals traveling to the United States for business (B1) or tourism/pleasure (B2). The US visa process can seem daunting, but understanding the associated costs is essential to avoid unexpected surprises. In 2025, the US government has introduced new updates to visa fees, including a newly added Integrity Fee. This comprehensive guide will break down each fee, explain the reasoning behind them, and help you navigate the payment process with ease.

Whether you are visiting for a business conference, a vacation, or to visit family, knowing the exact costs involved will save you time and stress. Let's explore every detail of the B1/B2 visa fees and the correct steps to follow for your application.

1. What Are the B1/B2 Visa Categories?

The B1 visa is intended for temporary business visitors. Common examples include attending meetings, conferences, negotiations, or short-term training in the United States. The B2 visa, on the other hand, is for tourism, visiting friends and family, receiving medical treatment, or participating in social events.

These visas are typically combined into one stamp: B1/B2, allowing flexibility for both purposes. The maximum stay is usually 6 months, and extensions may be possible in certain cases. Importantly, these visas do not permit employment or long-term study in the United States.

2. Full Breakdown of All B1/B2 Visa Fees (2025)

3. Payment Process: How to Pay Your US Visa Fees

1. Fill out the DS-160 form online through the US Department of State website. Make sure to print the confirmation page with the barcode.
2. Create an account on the official US Travel Docs website for your country. This is where you will generate the payment receipt for the MRV fee.
3. Pay the MRV fee using the available payment methods such as bank transfer, credit card, or cash at designated locations.
4. Schedule your visa interview using the payment confirmation.
5. After visa approval, you may be asked to pay the Integrity Fee and/or Reciprocity Fee before visa issuance.

4. Refunds, Validity and Expiration of Visa Fees

The MRV fee is valid for 12 months from the date of payment. If you do not schedule your interview within this period, the fee will expire, and you will need to pay again. The Integrity Fee is only charged after visa approval, and is refundable if the visa is not issued for administrative reasons. Reciprocity fees, once paid, are generally non-refundable regardless of the outcome.

5. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Paying through unofficial websites leading to scams or lost money.
• Entering incorrect DS-160 information, causing delays or denials.
• Scheduling interviews too late, causing MRV fee expiration.

6. Country-Specific Reciprocity Fees

7. Tips for a Successful Visa Interview

• Dress professionally and arrive early.
• Be honest and concise in your answers.
• Demonstrate strong ties to your home country (family, job, assets).
• Bring all required documentation including financial evidence and itinerary.

8. Common Visa Denial Reasons and How to Avoid Them

• Lack of sufficient financial resources to support your trip.
• Inconsistent answers during the interview.
• Weak ties to home country suggesting possible overstay risk.
• Incomplete documentation or failure to follow instructions.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I pay the MRV fee in cash?

In most countries, you can pay in cash at designated bank branches or payment centers. Check the US embassy website for exact methods.

How long does it take to process the visa after paying fees?

Processing time varies by embassy and season. Standard times range from 5 to 15 working days after the interview.

Do children need to pay the same fees?

In most cases, yes. However, some embassies may waive the interview for children under 14 or seniors over 80, though the MRV fee still applies.

Is there any discount or waiver for US visa fees?

Fee waivers are rare but may apply for certain humanitarian cases, government officials, or international organization staff.