U.S. visitor visa guide
U.S. visitor visa fees: MRV, reciprocity, and Htex service fees
Explains the official nonimmigrant visa application fee categories, reciprocity/issuance fees, local service charges, and how Htex platform fees differ—amounts must be verified on official pages.
Short answer
Most B1/B2 applicants pay a nonimmigrant visa application (MRV) processing fee to the U.S. government. Some nationalities also pay a reciprocity/issuance fee if a visa is issued. Local VAC or courier fees may apply. Htex platform fees are separate and never replace official fees.
Official application processing fee (MRV)
The Department of State publishes nonimmigrant visa application processing fees by category. Visitor visas (B categories) fall under the non-petition-based schedule. As of the review date on this page, that published amount is USD 185. Always re-check the official fee table before paying—schedules can change.
- The MRV fee is generally required to process the application.
- Payment is typically non-refundable and non-transferable between applicants.
- Paying the fee is not a visa decision and does not mean approval.
Reciprocity, VAC, and other official charges
Depending on nationality, an issuance/reciprocity fee may be due if a visa is approved. Check the Visa Reciprocity schedule for your passport country. Some posts also collect biometrics, courier, or service-center fees set by the designated provider—not by Htex.
| Fee type | Who sets it | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MRV application fee | U.S. Department of State | Usually paid before interview booking |
| Reciprocity / issuance | State Dept. reciprocity schedule | Often only if a visa is issued |
| Local VAC / courier | Local service provider / post | Varies by city; confirm locally |
Htex platform fee boundary
Htex charges a platform service fee for document preparation and related member benefits. That fee is separate from embassy/consulate fees. Consular amounts are paid to official authorities; Htex does not collect or remit MRV fees.
- Check /pricing for current Htex promo and regular platform pricing.
- Platform fee policy (including denial-related refunds when applicable) follows the live product terms—not marketing blogs.
- Embassy fees remain subject to official refund rules, which often mean non-refundable MRV payments.
FAQ
If my visa is refused, do I get the MRV fee back?
Generally no. Official guidance treats the application processing fee as payment for processing, not for a positive outcome. Confirm any exception only on official channels.
Is USD 185 always the B1/B2 fee?
It is the published non-petition-based amount as of this page’s review date, but you must verify the current Fees for Visa Services page before paying.
Are children’s fees different?
Children who need a visa usually still pay the applicable application fee unless an official exemption applies. Check State Department rules and your post.
Does paying Htex cover the embassy fee?
No. Htex platform fees and U.S. government visa fees are separate payments to different parties.
Official sources
Links to public government pages for verification. Htex is not a government agency; this page is explanatory only.