Archive · 21 Nov 2025
US Immigration Fees to Rise in 2026
The US government is raising some of its immigration and travel fees starting next year.
This includes fees for people who need special permission to enter the US (parole), those who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA), and Chinese citizens with certain types of US visas.
However, these changes won't affect all Indian tourists.
US to increase immigration and border-related fees starting Jan 1, 2026
Changes part of annual adjustments required by 'One Big Beautiful Bill' (HR-1)
Parole fee for non-citizens temporarily allowed into the US to increase to $1,020
ESTA fee for Visa Waiver Program participants to increase to $40.27
Electronic Visa Update System fee for Chinese B-1/B-2 visa holders to increase to $30.75
- Who
- US Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
- What
- Increasing immigration and border-related fees
- When
- Starting January 1, 2026
- Where
- United States
- Why
- To reflect inflation, as required by law
Supporters of Fee Increase
Critics of Fee Increase
Inflation Adjustment
Supporters of Fee Increase
The fee increases are necessary to keep up with inflation and maintain the quality of immigration services.
Critics of Fee Increase
The increases are too modest to make a significant difference and may not cover the actual inflation rate.
- Form I-94 Fee
- No change, remains $30