US Visa Fees in Canada: What You Need to Know

The cost of obtaining a U.S. visa in Canada can vary significantly depending on the type of visa you are applying for. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the fees for various U.S. visa categories, the payment methods accepted, and additional costs that may be involved. Whether you’re planning to visit the U.S. for tourism, business, or other reasons, understanding these fees can help you better prepare for your application process.

First, it’s crucial to note that visa fees are generally non-refundable, regardless of whether your application is approved or denied. Fees are subject to change, so it’s always wise to check the latest information from the U.S. embassy or consulate before applying.

Tourist and Business Visas (B-1/B-2)

For most people applying for a B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourist) visa, the application fee is USD 185. This fee covers the cost of processing the visa application. Additionally, if you need to schedule an appointment with the U.S. embassy or consulate, there may be an extra service fee.

Student Visas (F-1/M-1)

If you’re applying for a student visa, such as an F-1 (academic student) or M-1 (vocational student) visa, the application fee is USD 185. Students may also be required to pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee, which is USD 350 for F-1 and USD 220 for M-1 visas. This fee helps cover the costs of maintaining the SEVIS system.

Exchange Visitor Visas (J-1)

For J-1 exchange visitor visas, the application fee is USD 185. Similar to student visas, J-1 visa applicants may also need to pay the SEVIS fee, which varies depending on the program.

Work Visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1)

Work visas like H-1B (specialty occupation), L-1 (intra-company transferee), and O-1 (individuals with extraordinary ability) have higher fees. The application fee for these visas is typically USD 190. However, additional fees may apply for specific visa types or for expedited processing. For example, an H-1B visa application might include a fee for premium processing, which costs an additional USD 2,500.

Immigrant Visas

If you are seeking an immigrant visa to become a permanent resident in the U.S., the fee is USD 325 for the application itself. Additional fees may apply depending on the specific type of immigrant visa and the services required.

Payment Methods

Visa application fees in Canada can generally be paid via various methods including credit card, bank draft, or in-person at designated visa application centers (VACs). It is essential to confirm the payment methods accepted by the U.S. embassy or consulate where you are applying, as methods may vary.

Additional Costs

Aside from the visa application fee, there may be additional costs associated with your visa application process. These can include:

• Biometric Fees: Some visa categories require biometric data collection, which may incur an additional fee.
• Visa Issuance Fee: In certain cases, there may be a visa issuance fee, which is separate from the application fee.
• Document Preparation: Costs for obtaining necessary documents, such as medical exams or police certificates, can add up.

Conclusion

Navigating the visa application process can be complex and costly. By understanding the various fees and additional costs associated with U.S. visas in Canada, you can better prepare for your application and avoid unexpected expenses. Always refer to the official U.S. embassy or consulate website for the most accurate and current fee information.