Your visa application fee is non-refundable and non-transferrable. It cannot be transferred to another person. The visa application fee is valid for one year from the date of payment.

In 2026, a paid U.S. visa application fee (the MRV fee) is typically valid for 365 days from the date of payment. This means you must schedule your interview appointment within one year of paying the fee; however, the actual interview date can be further in the future if appointments are backed up. It is important to note that if you do not schedule an appointment within that 365-day window, the fee "expires," and you will not be able to use it to book a slot or receive a refund. In 2026, the total cost for a B1/B2 (Tourist/Business) visa for many international applicants has increased to $435 (including the new $250 "Visa Integrity Fee" implemented in late 2025). Once you have paid this non-refundable fee, it is tied to your specific profile and cannot be transferred to another person. If you cancel your appointment more than a few times, some consulates may "lock" the fee, requiring you to contact support to reactivate it. Always keep your payment receipt (the CGI reference number) secure, as it is the only proof that your "one-year clock" has started.