A $250 “visa integrity fee” for travelers from non-visa waiver countries—including Mexico, India, China, Brazil, and Argentina—will take effect on October 1, raising total US visa costs to $442. US arrivals fell 3.1 percent in July to 19.2m, marking the fifth consecutive monthly decline in 2025, while international visitor spending is projected to drop to under $169bn, down from $181bn in 2024, Firstpost reported.

Travel experts warn higher fees and stricter visa rules, including shorter durations for students, cultural exchange participants, media, and potential bonds of up to $15,000, will further deter visitors. The measures, combined with Trump administration immigration policies, tariffs, and foreign aid cuts, are contributing to a sustained slump in inbound travel despite upcoming events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.