Canada Visa: New $250 Fee for PRs and Workers Entering US
If you’re considering a move to Canada and exploring job opportunities, there’s some important news regarding travel to the US that may pique your interest. Starting in late 2025, an additional fee of $250 USD, known as the US Visa Integrity Fee, will be required when applying for certain non-immigrant visas. This could impact international job seekers planning to travel to the US while pursuing Canadian opportunities.
Who Will Need to Pay the US Visa Integrity Fee?
This fee applies to foreign nationals—such as those with Canadian permanent residency—and some Canadians when they apply for non-immigrant visas. These visas include categories like tourist (B-1/B-2), student (F/M), and work (H-1B/H-4) visas. Anyone from countries that require a visa to enter the US, including Canada, must pay this fee on top of their regular application costs.
When Do Canadian Citizens Need a Non-Immigrant Visa?
Most Canadian citizens don’t need a visa to visit the US; however, certain situations necessitate a visa. These include:
- Government or diplomatic travel (A, G, or NATO visas).
- Treaty traders and investors (E-1 and E-2 visas).
- Fiancé(e)s of U.S. citizens (K-1 and K-2 visas).
- Spouses and children of U.S. citizens (K-3 and K-4 visas).
- Workers providing critical information to US law enforcement (S-5, S-6, and S-7 visas).
If a Canadian is travelling under these categories, they’ll have to pay the US Visa Integrity Fee.
Who Is Exempt from the US Visa Integrity Fee?
Visitors who do not require a visa to enter the US are exempt from this fee. Canada is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program, meaning most Canadians won’t face this fee unless applying for a specific non-immigrant visa.
Is the US Visa Integrity Fee Refundable?
The legislation states that this fee will not be waived or reduced. However, there are circumstances where applicants might be eligible for reimbursement, such as:
- Complying with all conditions of their non-immigrant visa, including not working without permission.
- Leaving the US within five days after their visa expires.
- Have their visa adjusted to permanent residency status while in the US.
Even if entitled to a refund, applicants will need to go through the Department of Homeland Security. Currently, detailed information about the refund process has not been made public.
Why This Matters for International Job Seekers
Understanding these changes is essential, especially for those looking for international job opportunities, like the ones featured on our site, VisaJobsCanada.com. Every listing on VisaJobsCanada.com includes visa support, making it easier for you to navigate your move to Canada and any potential travel to the US.
As you explore your options for Canadian jobs, it’s also good to stay informed about the implications this fee may have on your plans. Whether you envision a temporary role or a long-term career in Canada, every bit of information helps in preparing for your journey.
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