How much is the fee for DS 160 tourist visa?

Decoding the DS-160 Fee: How Much Does a US Tourist Visa Cost?

Planning a trip to the United States? The excitement of exploring new landscapes or connecting with loved ones can quickly be overshadowed by the complexities of visa applications. One crucial question many prospective travelers ask is: how much does the DS-160 form itself cost? The answer, surprisingly, is nothing.

The DS-160, the online nonimmigrant visa application form, is entirely free. There’s no fee associated with filling out this crucial document. It’s a vital first step in the visa application process, requiring detailed personal information, travel plans, and other relevant details. Confusingly, the cost of the form itself is often conflated with the nonimmigrant visa application fee.

The Real Cost: The Nonimmigrant Visa Application Fee

The actual cost you’ll encounter is the nonimmigrant visa application fee, which is separate from the DS-160 form. For most tourist, business, or student visas, this fee is currently $185 USD. This fee covers the processing of your visa application by the U.S. embassy or consulate. It’s non-refundable, regardless of whether your visa application is approved or denied.

This $185 fee applies to several visa categories, including:

• B-2 Tourist Visa: For tourism and pleasure visits.
• B-1 Business Visa: For temporary business activities.
• F-1 Student Visa: For academic studies.
• TN Visa: For citizens of Canada and Mexico under NAFTA trade agreements.

Other Potential Costs

While the $185 application fee is the main expense, remember that additional costs may arise:

• Visa application processing services: Some individuals opt for third-party services to assist with the application process. These services come with their own fees.
• Travel insurance: It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance, covering potential medical emergencies or trip disruptions.
• Passport fees: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the US. Renewal or new passport applications come with associated fees.

In Summary:

Don’t let the confusion surrounding the DS-160 and the visa application fee trip you up. The DS-160 form itself is free. The significant cost is the $185 nonimmigrant visa application fee, which is essential for processing your application. Remember to factor in additional potential costs to budget accurately for your trip to the United States.