The United States Department of State has officially announced an update to the application fees for non-immigrant visas, with the new rates coming into effect globally from May 2025. This revision impacts all U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide, including the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos.
These changes affect Nigerians applying for temporary visas to visit the U.S. for tourism, business, study, work, or to join a fiancé(e).
Updated U.S. Non-Immigrant Visa Fees – May 2025
Here’s a breakdown of the new application fees across key visa categories:
| Visa Type | Code | New Fee | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa (Tourism/Business) | B-1/B-2 | $185 | For meetings, conferences, family visits, and vacations |
| Transit Visa | C-1 | $185 | For travelers passing through U.S. en route to another destination |
| Student Visa (Academic) | F | $185 | For students enrolling in U.S. colleges and universities |
| Vocational Student Visa | M | $185 | For technical or non-academic training programs |
| Temporary Worker Visa | H | $205 | Includes H-1B for skilled professionals |
| Athlete/Entertainer Visa | P | $205 | For professional athletes, artists, or performers |
| Religious Worker Visa | R | $205 | For clergy and religious personnel |
| Fiancé(e) Visa | K | $265 | For individuals planning to marry a U.S. citizen |
Key Information for Applicants
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The new rates apply only to non-immigrant visas, which are temporary permits for short stays in the U.S.
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Immigrant visas—those leading to permanent residency or a Green Card—are not affected by this fee adjustment.
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Fees are payable upon application submission and are non-refundable, even if the visa is denied.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to apply for a U.S. visa in 2025 for study, tourism, business, or family reasons, it’s important to take note of these fee changes and budget accordingly. This update reflects the U.S. government’s ongoing efforts to adjust its visa policies while maintaining the integrity and efficiency of its immigration processes.