Post by : Rameen Ariff

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that various immigration and border-related fees will see an increase starting January 1, 2026. This adjustment is a standard annual measure required by US law to reflect inflation and ensure that costs associated with immigration services remain current.

The fee alterations will impact three primary areas: the Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS), the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), and the parole fee applicable to non-citizens permitted temporary entry into the US. These changes will lead to a modest increase in travel and immigration expenses for certain international travelers.

For example, the parole fee—which enables foreign nationals to enter the US temporarily without a visa—will rise from $1,000 to $1,020. This charge is pertinent to individuals gaining entry for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit as per the Immigration and Nationality Act.

The ESTA fee, applicable to travelers from nations under the US Visa Waiver Program, will see a minor increase from $40 to $40.27. Notably, Indian citizens will remain unaffected as India is not part of this program.

Additionally, the EVUS fee, which primarily applies to Chinese citizens holding B-1 or B-2 visas needing to periodically update their travel information, will rise from $30 to $30.75.

Conversely, the fee for Form I-94—needed for certain international visitors to enter the US—will stay unchanged at $30.

These fee adjustments are part of the DHS's obligation to revise immigration costs yearly in alignment with inflation, ensuring adequate coverage for the expenses tied to managing immigration services. Travelers and immigration service applicants should factor in these upcoming changes when planning visits to the US starting next year.

These alterations, effective from January 1, 2026, will be relevant for travelers and immigration applicants depending on their visa categories and travel needs.

This update serves as a reminder for international visitors, including Indians, to consider these minor yet significant changes when planning travel or visa applications for the United States.

#Global