Reference · Fees
U.S. consular visa application fees by category
The U.S. State Department lists a $185 base application fee for most visitor and student visas, $205 for selected petition-based employment categories and $315 for E-category visas. The charge to process an application and the reciprocity fee due in some approved cases are separate line items.
Sources checked
Application fees shown for selected categories and the adult border crossing card.
Start with the visa category
The same $185 application charge covers B visitor visas and F and M student visas. The State Department lists $205 for H, L, O, P, Q and R applications. E and K have separately listed charges. The application processing fee is generally nonrefundable. Source 1
Check the issuance table after the application fee
A visa issuance fee can apply when the application is approved. The State Department publishes this by nationality or relevant authority and visa class. Its reciprocity tables also show the validity period and the number of entries for the visa. Source 2
A blanket L case can have separate fees
The published $205 application fee applies to the L category. The schedule separately lists a $500 fraud prevention and detection charge for the principal applicant covered by a blanket L petition. The schedule also lists a distinct charge for certain petitioners under Public Law 114-113. Source 1
Read the conditions for a lower fee
The $15 border crossing card rate is restricted to eligible Mexican children under 15 whose parent or guardian has or is applying for a card. Qualifying U.S. government-sponsored J exchange applicants have a separate exemption from the normal application fee. Each exception depends on the application details. Source 1