DS-160 Fee Payment Guide

All applicants for nonimmigrant visas must pay a visa application fee. This guide explains the payment process, fee amounts, and what you need to know about DS-160 related payments.

Visa Application Fee

Current Fee Schedule

• Visitor Visas (B1/B2): $160 USD
• Student and Exchange Visitor Visas (F, M, J): $160 USD
• Temporary Worker Visas (H, L, O, P, Q, R): $190 USD
• Trader and Investor Visas (E): $205 USD
• Fiancé(e) Visas (K): $265 USD

Note: Fees are subject to change. Always check the official U.S. Department of State website for the most current fee information.

Payment Methods

Payment methods vary by country, but generally include:

Common Payment Options

1. Online Payment

   • Credit/debit card payment through the official payment portal
   • Electronic bank transfer

2. Cash Payment

   • Through approved banks
   • At designated payment centers

3. Mobile Payment

   • Mobile payment applications (where available)

Payment Process

Before Your Interview

1. Complete the DS-160 form
   • Submit your DS-160 application and print the confirmation page
2. Pay the application fee
   • Use one of the approved payment methods for your location
   • Keep your receipt as proof of payment
3. Schedule your visa interview
   • In most cases, you can only schedule after payment is confirmed

Important Points to Remember

• Visa application fees are non-refundable, regardless of whether your visa is approved
• Fees are typically valid for one year from the payment date
• Payment does not guarantee visa approval
• Always keep your payment receipt until after your visa interview

Reciprocity Fees

In addition to the standard application fee, some applicants may need to pay a reciprocity fee. These fees vary based on:

• Your country of citizenship
• Type of visa
• Reciprocal agreements between your country and the United States

Reciprocity fees, if applicable, are typically paid after the visa is approved but before it is issued.

Fee Waivers

In rare circumstances, applicants may be eligible for a fee waiver:

• Certain exchange visitors
• Diplomatic and official visa applicants
• Participants in U.S. government-sponsored programs
• Cases of extreme hardship

Fee waiver eligibility is determined by the consular section.

Checking Payment Status

If you're unsure about your payment status:

1. Log in to the visa appointment system
2. Contact the call center for your specific embassy or consulate
3. Check with the financial institution that processed your payment

Common Payment Issues

• Payment not recognized: Wait 24-48 hours for payment to be processed
• System errors: Take screenshots of error messages for support
• Receipt lost: Contact the payment service for a duplicate receipt
• Duplicate payment: Bring documentation of both payments to your interview

For specific payment instructions for your country, please visit the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply.