Applying for a US visa involves several steps, and one of the key aspects is paying the visa fee. Knowing where and how to pay this fee correctly is essential for a smooth visa application process. The US visa fee is a non – refundable charge that varies depending on the type of visa you’re applying for. In this article, we’ll explore the different payment methods and locations available for paying the US visa fee.
Types of US Visas and Their Associated Fees
Tourist Visas (B – 1/B – 2)
The B – 1/B – 2 visas are for temporary visitors to the United States for business (B – 1) or tourism, pleasure, or visiting family and friends (B – 2). The application fee for these visas is currently $160. This fee is the same for most applicants from around the world.
Student Visas (F, M, and J)
F and M Visas: These are for academic and non – academic students respectively. The application fee for F and M visas is \(160. Additionally, for students applying for an F – 1 or M – 1 visa, there is a SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee. The SEVIS fee for F – 1 and M – 1 students is \)350. This fee is paid directly to the Department of Homeland Security and is separate from the visa application fee.
J Visas: For exchange visitors on J visas, the application fee is also \(160. However, some J – visa applicants may also be required to pay a SEVIS fee of \)220, depending on their program type.
Work Visas
H Visas (e.g., H – 1B for Specialty Occupations): The application fee for H – 1B visas is \(190. But this is just the basic fee. Employers may also be required to pay additional fees such as the Fraud Prevention and Detection Fee, which is \)500 for certain employers, and the American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act (ACWIA) fee of \(750 or \)1500, depending on the size of the employer.
L Visas (for Intra – company Transferees): The application fee for L visas is $205. Similar to H visas, there may be additional fees depending on the circumstances.
Payment Methods for US Visa Fees
Online Payment
CGI Federal Payment System: In many countries, applicants can use the CGI Federal payment system. This is a convenient online platform.
Steps: First, you need to create an account on the official US visa application website for your country. After registering, you’ll be directed to the payment section. Here, you can choose the online payment option through the CGI Federal system. You can pay using a credit card (such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express) or a debit card. The system is secure, and once the payment is successful, you’ll receive a payment confirmation number. This number is crucial as you’ll need it to complete your visa application process.
Example: Priya, an Indian applicant for a US tourist visa, creates an account on the US visa application website for India. She selects the online payment option, enters her credit card details, and pays the $160 visa fee. She immediately receives a confirmation number that she saves for future reference.
PayPal: In some regions, PayPal is also an accepted payment method. If available, you can link your PayPal account to the visa application payment portal. You can fund your PayPal account using various means like bank transfers, credit cards, or debit cards. Once linked, you can use PayPal to pay the visa fee. This option provides an added layer of security as you don’t need to directly share your financial details with the visa payment system.
Bank Transfer
Local Bank Transfer: In many countries, the US embassy or consulate has a designated local bank where you can transfer the visa fee.
Steps: First, you need to obtain the bank details from the official US visa application website for your country. These details will include the bank name, account number, and any specific instructions. Then, you visit your local bank or use their online banking service to initiate the transfer. Make sure to include your name, passport number, and the purpose of the payment (US visa fee) in the transfer details. After the transfer is complete, you’ll need to obtain a receipt from your bank. This receipt serves as proof of payment and should be presented during the visa application process.
Example: In China, applicants can transfer the US visa fee to a designated bank account. Li, who is applying for a US student visa, gets the bank details from the US embassy’s website in China. He goes to his local bank, fills out a transfer form, and transfers the \(160 visa fee and the \)350 SEVIS fee. He gets a receipt from the bank, which he keeps safely.
Western Union: Western Union is another option for bank – based payments in some countries. You can use the Western Union Quick Pay service. You’ll need to provide the necessary details such as the payee (usually the US embassy or consulate), the amount to be paid, and your personal information. Once the payment is made, you’ll receive a Money Transfer Control Number (MTCN). This number is used to confirm the payment during the visa application process.
In – Person Payment
At Designated Banks: In some areas, you can pay the US visa fee in person at specific banks. These banks are usually pre – approved by the US embassy or consulate.
Steps: First, check the list of designated banks on the official US visa application website for your country. Then, visit the bank branch with your visa application details. Fill out the payment form provided by the bank, which will require information like your name, passport number, and the type of visa you’re applying for. Pay the required fee in cash or by using a debit/credit card, depending on the bank’s accepted payment methods. The bank will then provide you with a receipt as proof of payment.
Example: In Brazil, certain banks are authorized to accept US visa fee payments. Ana, who is applying for a US work visa, goes to a designated bank. She fills out the payment form, hands over the $190 visa fee in cash, and gets a receipt from the bank.
Conclusion
Paying the US visa fee is a fundamental step in the visa application journey. With the variety of payment methods available, from online platforms like the CGI Federal system and PayPal, to bank transfers via local banks or Western Union, and in – person payments at designated banks, applicants have flexibility in choosing the most convenient option. However, it’s crucial to remember that each method has its own set of steps and requirements.
Always double – check the visa type and its associated fees to ensure you pay the correct amount. Keep all payment receipts and confirmation numbers safe, as they are essential for the visa application process. Whether you’re a tourist, student, or professional seeking a US visa, a smooth payment process sets the stage for a successful application. By following the guidelines and being meticulous about the payment details, you can avoid unnecessary delays and complications, bringing you one step closer to achieving your travel or work goals in the United States.
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