There has been a lot of news recently about the Trump Administration creating hurdles for visitors to come to America that can negatively impact the country, so we just wanted to clarify what is happening.
- Visa Integrity Fee – Starting October 2025, tourists from non–Visa Waiver Program countries (China, India, Brazil, the Philippines, South Africa, Thailand, and much of Africa/Middle East) will pay a $250 “Integrity Fee” on top of the regular visa charge, indexed to inflation. It may also hit some land entries and even certain VWP travelers. Exempt: U.S. citizens, resident aliens, most Canadians, and immigration visa holders. Refundable if you follow the rules, though good luck actually getting that refund.
- VWP Visitors – Citizens of the 40 Visa Waiver countries, think Japan, Australia, South Korea, U.K., France, Germany, skip the Integrity Fee in most cases, but starting in 2025, the ESTA fee they pay will jump from $21 to $40 and…
- 30-Day Registration Rule – Since April 2025, all non-U.S. citizens, including VWP visitors, must register with USCIS if staying more than 30 days. Failure to comply can lead to fines, visa revocation, or deportation, though jail time is rare and typically reserved for repeat or serious violations. Think Canadian snowbirds.
- Visa Bond Pilot – From August 20th, 2025, some travelers from high-overstay countries (currently Zambia, Malawi) may need to post a $5K–$15K bond to get a tourist/business visa.
- Targeted Visa Bans – Ongoing suspensions for certain countries over security concerns. Covers tourist, student, and other visas, with narrow exceptions (e.g., Afghanistan, Haiti, Iran, and others).
Welcome to America, papers, registration fees, and the threat of jail.
