Thinking about traveling to the United States? Be prepared to pay higher fees for two essential travel papers.
Beginning with the fiscal year 2025, international travelers going tothe United States— even for a brief layover — will encounter increased charges for two important documents:the I-94form and the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) permit.
The price hikes are part of thenew immigration packageintroduced by the Trump administration and approved byCongressThe objective is to finance enhanced border security activities, but these modifications will affect millions of individuals who enter the U.S. on a temporary basis or travel under the Visa Waiver Program.
New required charge for the I-94: Minimum amount increases from $6 to $24
For the initial time, theDepartment of Homeland Security (DHS) will impose a required minimum fee of at least $24 perI-94application. This represents a significant rise from the existing $6 charge applied to numerous land-border travelers or individuals who filled out the form online prior to arriving by air. The updated fee could see further increases due to upcoming regulations and will be automatically adjusted for inflation beginning in 2026.
Previously, certain travelers were given theI-94as part of other immigration or travel-related fees. According to the new law, it must now be billed individually—without any exceptions, including for those facing financial difficulties.
A portion of the revenue will be allocated for border security, while the rest will be directed to the general fund of theUS Treasury.
What is the I-94 form, and who is required to have it?
The I-94is an official document that the United States governmentis used to record the entry and exit of nonresident foreign nationals. It is important for demonstrating lawful entry and monitoring the duration of their authorized stay.
Who is required to submit anI-94?
- Foreign nationals entering the USon a temporary visa (such as for students, employees, or visitors)
- Individuals seeking to alter or prolong their immigration status while located within theUS
- Some visitors crossing land borders, unless they are specifically exempted
Increase in the ESTA visa waiver fee: from $21 to a minimum of $30 per application
The HR-1 legislation also establishes anew minimum charge of $30 per ESTA application. This marks a rise from the existing $21 fee, which previously combined both a processing charge and an authorization fee. This sum was frequently included in other travel expenses or paid by third parties, resulting in it being less noticeable to many travelers.
The cost could rise due to upcoming regulatory updates and will also be revised each year to account for inflation. Out of the total amount collected, $5 will be sent directly to the U.S. Treasury, while the remaining funds will be used to support the ESTA system.
As with the I-94, the law prohibits any exceptions: every traveler is required to pay, irrespective of age, nationality, or financial hardship.
What is ESTA and in what situations is it required?
ESTA is a digital platform utilized by visitors from countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program whoplan to visit the US without a visaIt is required even for brief visits for tourism, business, or transit flights.
Who is required to apply for ESTA?
- Residents of nations involved in theVisa Waiver Program
- Visitors from these nations who do not have a US visa and intend to remain for under 90 days
- Citizens from countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program need a valid ESTA, even if they are just passing through the country.US without leaving the airport.
