US Visa 2025 Update: $250 Integrity Fee & Mandatory Interviews – What Indian Travelers Must Know

From September 2, 2025, the United States is introducing two major changes to its US visa application process — a new $250 visa integrity fee and mandatory in-person interviews for most non-immigrant visa categories.

For Indian travelers applying for a US Tourist Visa (B2) or US Business Visa (B1), these updates mean changes in cost, process, and preparation requirements.

At Sanctum Consulting, Hyderabad’s trusted visa consultancy, we specialize in guiding applicants through complex US visa procedures with precision and care. Here’s everything you need to know — and how to prepare effectively.

What’s New in the US Visa Process?

1. $250 Visa Integrity Fee

• Applies To: Most non-immigrant US visa categories, including B1 Business Visa and B2 Tourist Visa.

• Purpose:

  • Strengthen security checks

  • Fund enhanced screening procedures

  • Prevent misuse of short-term visas

• Impact on Cost:

  • Previous Fee: MRV (Machine Readable Visa) Fee – approx. $185 (₹15,500)

  • New Total: MRV Fee + $250 (₹21,000) Integrity Fee = approx. $36,500 per applicant

2. Mandatory In-Person Visa Interviews

• Who is Affected:

  • Most applicants, including renewals and frequent travelers

  • Limited waivers for certain diplomats, children, and elderly travelers

• Key Changes:

  • The Interview Waiver / Dropbox facility will be drastically reduced.

  • Applicants must now appear in person before a US Consular Officer.

• Reason:

  • Allows for stronger identity verification

  • Enables officers to assess travel intent directly

Impact on B2 Tourist Visa Applicants

If you’re planning a holiday, family visit, or leisure trip to the USA:

• Higher Application Costs – The $250 fee applies in addition to existing costs like visa fee, biometrics, and travel insurance.

• Longer Wait Times for Slots – More people attending interviews means possible delays in securing appointments.

• Stricter Screening – Expect more detailed questions about your finances, itinerary, and proof of ties to India.

Impact on B1 Business Visa Applicants

If you’re attending a conference, meeting clients, or exploring partnerships in the US:

• Corporate Budgeting – Businesses must now factor in the additional $250 per traveler.

• Urgent Travel Challenges – Emergency trips will require extra planning to secure a slot.

• Documentation Importance – Invitation letters, company credentials, and travel purpose proof will be more critical than ever.

Sanctum Consulting – Your Partner in Navigating These Changes

At Sanctum Consulting, we make your US Tourist Visa or US Business Visa process simple, accurate, and stress-free.

Our services include:

• Personalized US visa document checklist based on your travel purpose

• DS-160 form filling assistance to avoid costly mistakes

• Visa appointment booking for the US Consulate / Embassy

• Interview preparation sessions with real question simulations

• Cover letter drafting that clearly explains your travel intent

• Travel insurance guidance for US trips

• Flight & hotel itinerary planning for visa approval support

Expert Tips to Prepare Under the New Rules

1. Apply Early – With more people attending interviews, appointment slots will fill up faster.

2. Prepare Your Finances – Have bank statements, income proofs, and tax returns ready.

3. Practice for the Interview – Be confident, concise, and consistent with your application details.

4. Budget for Additional Costs – Factor in the $250 fee plus other expenses.

5. Stay Updated – Visa rules can change quickly; rely on trusted consultants like Sanctum for the latest guidance.

Why Choose Sanctum Consulting?

• Proven Track Record – Thousands of successful US visa approvals for Indian travelers

• Specialization – Expertise in US B1 Business Visa and US B2 Tourist Visa processing

• Local Expertise – Based in Hyderabad, serving clients across India

• End-to-End Service – From documents to interview coaching, we handle it all

Conclusion

The new $250 US visa fee and mandatory in-person interview requirements add extra steps to the visa process — but with expert guidance, you can still secure your visa smoothly and on time.At Sanctum Consulting, we ensure your application is accurate, well-prepared, and interview-ready so you can focus on your trip, not the paperwork.

📞 Contact Sanctum Consulting today for a US Tourist Visa or US Business Visa consultation. Your travel plans deserve the right start.