US Announces New Immigration Fee Hike In 2026; Here’s How This Will Affect Indians

From January 1, 2026, Americans travelling, working, or visiting temporarily will notice slightly higher immigration fees. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced these changes as part of mandatory annual inflation adjustments under the “One Big Beautiful Bill” (HR-1). Essentially, some visa and travel-related fees will move up to keep pace with rising costs.

US Immigration Fees 2026: What It Means For Indians

For most Indians, the news won’t hit the wallet hard. According to NDTV, the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), used by citizens of the Visa Waiver Program countries, will rise just 27 cents, from $40 to $40.27. Since India isn’t part of this program, Indian travellers won’t feel this pinch. Likewise, the Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS) fee, which affects Chinese B-1 and B-2 visa holders, will move from $30 to $30.75. Indians don’t fall into this category either.

Where Indians might notice a difference is the parole fee. Parole allows certain foreign nationals to enter the US temporarily for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit, even without a traditional visa. Starting in 2026, this fee increases from $1,000 to $1,020. It’s not a massive jump, but for Indians applying under these special circumstances, it’s an extra cost to plan for.

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Minor Wallet Pinch For Indians

Meanwhile, other standard travel-related fees remain steady. The Form I-94, also called the Arrival and Departure Form, continues to cost $30. Many Indian travellers filling out this form to enter the US won’t face any added expense.

These inflation-linked adjustments are routine, reflecting the law’s requirement to update fees annually based on the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers. Most Indian tourists and business visitors will barely notice the changes. However, those applying for parole entry should be aware and prepare for the small increase in 2026, as stated by NDTV. 

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In short, visiting the US won’t suddenly get expensive for Indians. The increases are minor, mostly symbolic, and limited to very specific categories. Travellers should keep an eye on the parole fee if they fall into that category, but otherwise, it’s business as usual for Indian passport holders planning their next US trip.

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