New $250 “Visa Integrity Fee” Could Make Visiting the U.S. Costlier for Many Travelers

New $250 “Visa Integrity Fee” Could Make Visiting the U.S. Costlier for Many Travelers

By Mary Campbell  A controversial new travel fee—dubbed the “visa integrity fee”—was enacted as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill, signed into law on July 4, 2025. It imposes a $250 charge on top of existing visa application fees for most non‑immigrant visa holders, including tourist (B‑1/B‑2), student (F/M), work (H‑1B/H‑4), and exchange (J‑1/J‑2) categories.  When […]

Why Are U.S. Consulates Denying Visitor Visas or Renewals When Someone in the U.S. Has Petitioned for the Applicant?

Why Are U.S. Consulates Denying Visitor Visas or Renewals When Someone in the U.S. Has Petitioned for the Applicant?

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. U.S. visitor visas (commonly B-1/B-2) are nonimmigrant visas granted to individuals who wish to travel temporarily to the United States for business or tourism. However, many applicants find their applications denied under Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA)—especially when a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident has filed […]

The Process of Applying for an H-1B Visa for Professionals in the U.S.

The Process of Applying for an H-1B Visa for Professionals in the U.S.

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. The H-1B visa is one of the most sought-after nonimmigrant visas for professionals in the United States, particularly for those in specialty occupations that require theoretical and practical expertise in fields like IT, engineering, healthcare, finance, and more. This visa allows U.S. companies to employ foreign professionals for a limited period, […]

Analysis: Extending a Vacation Stay in the United States Under Federal Immigration Law

Analysis: Extending a Vacation Stay in the United States Under Federal Immigration Law

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. | Editorial Credit: Alisa.strj/shutterstock.com When a foreign national is visiting the United States on a temporary basis, such as for tourism or vacation purposes, they may sometimes wish to extend their stay beyond the period initially granted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Under federal immigration law, extending a vacation […]