If you’re planning a trip to the United States, especially for work, study, or family purposes, there’s a new rule that could significantly impact your travel budget. As of October 1, 2025, a new U.S. “visa integrity fee” is officially in effect — and it’s adding up to CA$350 per person to the cost of crossing the border.
This fee stems from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, passed by the U.S. government in July, and it introduces sweeping changes to how some travellers — including many Canadians — must pay to enter the country.
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What Is the New U.S. Visa Integrity Fee?
The visa integrity fee is a non-optional US$250 charge (about CA$350) that applies to anyone being issued a non-immigrant visa to enter the U.S. This fee is in addition to the standard visa application fees, which already start at US$185 (CA$260).
What Does This Mean for Travellers?
For a single traveller, the total cost of getting a visa can now be over CA$600. For a family of four, the total could soar to CA$2,400 — and that’s before booking flights, accommodations, or any activities.
The fee is not a temporary surcharge. It’s recurring, will adjust annually for inflation starting in 2026, and there are no waivers available — even for students, families, or low-income applicants.
Who Needs to Pay the Integrity Fee?
Not all Canadians will be affected. Most Canadian citizens traveling to the U.S. for tourism, shopping, or short-term business do not need a visa, and therefore won’t have to pay the new fee.
However, the rule change does impact:
Certain Canadian Citizens Applying for Specific U.S. Visas
These include:
- K-1 and K-2 visas (joining a U.S. fiancé(e))
- K-3 and K-4 visas (family immigration processes)
- E-1 and E-2 visas (treaty traders or investors)
- A, G, and NATO visas (diplomatic or international official work)
- S-5, S-6, S-7 visas (law enforcement assistance)
Canadian Permanent Residents Face the Biggest Impact
Unlike citizens, permanent residents of Canada usually require a visa for any visit to the U.S., even for tourism or business. That means the majority of permanent residents will now be paying both the application fee and the new integrity fee — every time they apply.
Can the Fee Be Refunded? Technically Yes — But Don’t Count On It
The law allows for a potential refund of the integrity fee, but only under strict conditions:
- The traveller must fully comply with all visa rules
- They must leave the U.S. within five days of their visa’s expiration (or secure a legal extension or green card before then)
No Refund System Exists Yet
Even though the law permits reimbursement, there is no official refund process in place. Given that many visas are valid for up to 10 years, it could take a decade or more before someone even becomes eligible for a refund — and even longer before the U.S. government sets up the infrastructure to issue one.
Billions in Non-Refunded Fees Projected
According to the U.S. Congressional Budget Office (CBO), only a small fraction of visa holders are expected to meet the refund criteria. The CBO estimates the U.S. will collect around $28.9 billion over the next 10 years from fees that are never refunded to travellers.
What Travellers From Canada Need to Know
If you’re heading to the U.S. from Canada in the coming months, here’s a quick breakdown:
If You’re a Canadian Citizen:
- No visa needed for most short-term trips (tourism, business, shopping)
- No integrity fee required unless applying for specialized visa types
If You’re a Canadian Permanent Resident:
- You will likely need a visa, even for a short visit
- That means you’ll now pay both the application fee and the integrity fee
- The cost is per person, so travel with family or groups becomes significantly more expensive
Be Prepared — and Informed
- Check your visa requirements carefully before planning your trip
- Review official guidance from both U.S. and Canadian immigration websites
- Factor in the increased costs when budgeting your travel
Bottom Line: Know Before You Go
The introduction of the U.S. visa integrity fee marks a major shift in cross-border travel costs — especially for Canadians who don’t hold full citizenship. While it won’t affect everyone, those planning to visit for work, school, or family reunification could see a dramatic rise in visa expenses.
With no refunds in sight, understanding your visa obligations before applying is more important than ever.