Starting September 30, 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) began charging new and increased immigration fees as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (HR-1). These changes will impact international travelers entering the United States through land ports of entry, Visa Waiver Program applicants, and certain Chinese nationals traveling with visitor visas.
If you plan to travel to the U.S. later this year, it’s important to understand these updates and plan ahead.
Increased Fee for Form I-94 at Land Borders
The Form I-94 is issued to foreign nationals as evidence of their admission or parole into the U.S. While air and sea travelers generally receive an electronic I-94 automatically, individuals crossing into the U.S. by land must apply for and pay a fee.
- Old fee: $6
- New fee (effective Sept. 30, 2025): $30 total
- Breakdown: $6 existing fee + $24 surcharge required under HR-1
This change will primarily affect Canadian and Mexican travelers who regularly cross the land border for work, business, or extended stays. Short visits for shopping or tourism typically do not require an I-94, but individuals planning longer stays should be prepared for the higher fee.
ESTA Application Fee Nearly Doubles
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an online system used by citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries to secure travel authorization before entering the United States. ESTA applications are mandatory for business or tourism visits of up to 90 days.
- Old fee: $21
- New fee (effective Sept. 30, 2025): $40
Because ESTA is valid for two years or until the applicant’s passport expires (whichever comes first), travelers may wish to apply or renew before the new fee takes effect.
EVUS Enrollment Fee Set at $30
Chinese nationals traveling to the U.S. on a 10-year B1/B2 visitor visa must enroll in the Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS). This system allows travelers to update biographic information and maintain valid travel authorization.
- New fee (effective Sept. 30, 2025): $30
While this fee is new, EVUS enrollment remains valid for two years or until the traveler’s visa or passport expires, whichever comes first.
Why the Increases?
These fee adjustments are mandated by statute under HR-1 and are designed to generate additional revenue for border security and immigration services. The law also permits annual increases tied to inflation, meaning travelers could see further changes in the coming years.
Berardi Immigration Law Partner Jennifer Behm, Esq. notes, “These fee changes won’t apply to everyone, but they will matter for certain groups. Canadian and Mexican travelers crossing by land for extended stays will see the I-94 fee increase, Visa Waiver Program travelers will pay more for ESTA, and Chinese nationals with 10-year visitor visas will now face an EVUS enrollment fee. Knowing which category you fall into is key to planning ahead.”
Increased Immigration Fee Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do all land travelers need an I-94?
No. Short visits for shopping, dining, or day trips generally do not require an I-94. The form is usually necessary for individuals staying more than 30 days, working in the U.S., or changing immigration status.
Will these fees increase again?
Yes, potentially. Under HR-1, these fees may rise annually to account for inflation. Travelers should expect periodic adjustments going forward.
Planning Ahead for U.S. Travel
Fee increases are an unavoidable part of immigration law, but preparation can reduce the impact. Whether you’re a Canadian professional crossing the border weekly, a European tourist planning a holiday, or a Chinese national visiting family in the U.S., understanding the new rules ensures smoother travel.
At Berardi Immigration Law, our team helps individuals, families, and businesses navigate cross-border travel and immigration processes with confidence. If you have questions about these fee changes or your specific travel plans, our attorneys are here to help. Click this link to book your consultation today.
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