Changes in Visa Fees for Indian Nationals
Posted Oct 17, 2003

Visa Issuance Fee Eliminated or Reduced

The issuance fees changed for Indian nationals on October 11, 2003. As of that date, visa issuance fees are no longer needed for Indian national students, exchange visitors, transit, and crewman visas. Fees have been reduced for visitor and business visas from the previous $75 level to $50. The changes in issuance fee apply whether a visa is issued in India, through revalidation, or through third-country processing at other consulates, such as those in Canada or Mexico.

Visa Application Fee Remains

This change is only for the visa issuance fee. The $100 application fee remains in place, and is non-refundable. Issuance fees depend upon reciprocity, which is the explanation for the change in the amount of these fees. The change brings the issuance fees charged to Indian nationals by the U.S. in line with those that are changed to U.S. citizens by India.

Exchange Rate Adjusted

The exchange rate used by the Embassy and consular sections is also changing from Rs.49 to a dollar to Rs.46 to a dollar. The specific fees in rupees are available on the consular websites, which can be found through the U.S. Department of State WebSite.

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