Canadians issued journey recommendation round new US visa integrity charge

Canadians touring to the United States might face increased prices and stricter border procedures as a brand new Visa Integrity Fee takes impact for sure non-immigrant visas.

Why It Matters

While most Canadian residents making quick journeys to the United States won’t be affected, Canadian everlasting residents and different vacationers who require sure work, household, or particular visas might face the extra cost.

The new requirement, launched below President Donald Trump’s flagship home coverage, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, got here into impact on October 1, 2025.

Anyone making use of for a U.S. non-immigrant visa should now pay an extra $250 (roughly CA$350) on prime of the usual software charge of $185 (about CA$260). For a household of 4, whole visa prices alone might exceed CA$2,400, not together with flights or lodging.

The extra charge considerably will increase the price of acquiring a U.S. visa—notably for households and college students who already face substantial software and journey bills—and will discourage some from making use of altogether.

What To Know

Thida Ith, spokesperson at Global Affairs Canada, advised Newsweek the division was conscious of the brand new U.S. Visa Integrity Fee. “In most circumstances, Canadian citizens don’t require visitor, business, transit or other visas to enter the United States from Canada but there are some exceptions,” she mentioned.

Global Affairs Canada is the federal division that manages Canada’s diplomatic relations, consular providers, and worldwide commerce and growth insurance policies.

“Every country sets its own visa application processes and associated fees. Global Affairs Canada encourages Canadians to consult official government sources for their destination for necessary details,” mentioned Ith.

Global Affairs Canada mentioned that as a result of visa charges can change with out prior discover, the division usually didn’t replace the Travel Advice and Advisory pages to indicate visa charges.

The division’s journey recommendation web page for the United States was final up to date on October 1, but it surely doesn’t at the moment reference the brand new charge. Travelers who could also be affected are suggested to assessment U.S. visa necessities fastidiously earlier than making use of.

According to U.S. officers, the charge is meant to discourage overstays and promote compliance with journey rules. Travelers who adhere to the foundations and depart on time could also be eligible for a refund. The cost can also be scheduled to extend yearly starting in 2026, with changes linked to inflation.

Xiao Wang, CEO of Boundless Immigration, advised Newsweek that whereas most nations seen vacationers, household guests, non permanent employees, and college students as web positives for the native financial system, the newly applied visa integrity charge might have the other impact for sure vacationers.

“Total costs to visit the United States if not coming from a visa-waiver program country will then increase from $185 to $435,” Wang mentioned.

Canadians touring to the United States needs to be ready for each elevated prices and stricter border procedures.

Documentation necessities stay strict, and any go to longer than 30 days should be registered with U.S. authorities. Travelers might also have their digital gadgets inspected, be requested to show robust ties to Canada, or face detention if entry is denied.

The new visa integrity charge is just one a part of the image. Canada’s official journey advisory, up to date in August, highlights that vacationers can count on extra thorough screening, together with biometric checks at most ports of entry.

What People Are Saying

Thida Ith, spokesperson at Global Affairs Canada, advised Newsweek: “Canadians traveling to the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa are encouraged to contact the State Department with any questions.”

Xiao Wang, CEO of Boundless Immigration, advised Newsweek: “While policymakers have positioned the fee as a measure to strengthen oversight and prevent abuse, the practical result is steeper barriers for families from certain parts of the world. The increased government income will likely be more than offset by lower spending from those who take their vacation dollars elsewhere, reducing overall tax revenues to strengthen America’s border security.”

What Happens Next

Travelers who require a U.S. visa needs to be ready to pay an extra $250 on prime of the usual software charges and are suggested to seek the advice of the U.S. Department of State or their nearest consulate for the newest steering earlier than making journey plans.