U.S. visa fee could generate billions, hurt tourism industry — report

A proposed $250 “visa integrity fee” for U.S. visitors could generate $27 billion over 10 years, according to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), but tourism officials warn it could cost the economy even more.

Forbes reported that while the CBO projects about $2.7 billion in annual revenue from the fee, the U.S. Travel Association estimates it will result in $11 billion in losses over three years due to reduced visitor spending, lower tax revenues, and job cuts. An analysis by Tourism Economics suggests the fee could deter nearly 1 million visitors annually, translating to 15,000 lost travel industry jobs.

The CBO’s estimates did not factor in broader economic impacts, focusing only on the direct revenue from charging around 11 million visa applicants each year. Tourism officials argue that the fee, especially in growing markets like India, will discourage travel and harm businesses.

The fee is refundable after a visa expires — often 10 years later — if all conditions are met, but industry leaders told Forbes that many travelers are unlikely to claim it due to the lengthy and complex process.

Notably, the Philippines is exempted from this new fee.