00:00Starting October 1st, most travelers requiring non-immigrant visas, such as tourists, students
00:06and temporary workers, will face a new $250 visa integrity fee.
00:12While the fee may be refunded for travelers who fully comply with visa conditions, like
00:17timely departure, the reimbursement process remains unclear and could take years.
00:22Exemptions apply to participants in the Visa Waiver Program and most Canadians and Bermudans,
00:28but the change significantly increases costs for many visitors, especially students and
00:33business travelers.
00:34Critics warn the extra fee, along with cuts to tourism promotion, could further deter international
00:40travelers ahead of key events like the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics.
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