For most immigrant visa applicants, the fee for processing the DS-260 form is $325 per person. This fee is subject to change, so it’s important to refer to the U.S. Department of State’s official website or the website of the U.S. embassy or consulate handling your case for the most up-to-date information on fees.
It’s worth noting that the DS-260 fee is separate from other fees that may be associated with the immigrant visas application process, such as the visa application fee, medical examination fee, and other possible costs related to document translation, police certificates, and other required documents. It’s important to review the specific instructions and requirements provided by the National Visa Center (NVC) or the U.S. embassy/consulate to understand the complete fee structure and payment instructions for your case.
If you have specific questions about the DS-260 fee or any other fees related to the immigrant visa process, it’s recommended to consult the official sources mentioned above or contact the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate for accurate and up-to-date information.
How long does it take to process DS-260 fee?
The processing time for the DS-260 fee can vary depending on the payment method you choose and the specific procedures of the National Visa Center (NVC) or the U.S. embassy/consulate handling your case. Here are some general guidelines regarding the processing time:
- Online Payment: If you choose to pay the DS-260 fee online using the Department of State’s online payment system, the processing time is usually instantaneous. Once you complete the payment transaction online, the system should immediately update the payment status and provide you with a confirmation.
- Bank or Cash Payment: If you opt to make the payment at a designated bank or in cash at a local payment center, the processing time may take longer. It can depend on factors such as the efficiency of the payment processing system and the time it takes for the payment to be verified and recorded by the NVC or the embassy/consulate.
In general, it’s advisable to allow a few business days for the payment to be processed and reflected in your case record. If you have made the payment but do not see the updated payment status within a reasonable timeframe, you may consider contacting the NVC or the U.S. embassy/consulate for further assistance.
It’s important to note that the processing time for the DS-260 fee is separate from the overall processing time of the immigrant visa application. The DS-260 fee processing time typically pertains to the verification and recording of the payment, while the processing time of the entire application can take several weeks to several months, depending on various factors such as visa category, case complexity, and the workload of the NVC or the embassy/consulate.
If you have specific concerns or questions about the processing time of the DS-260 fee in your case, it’s advisable to consult the instructions provided by the NVC or the U.S. embassy/consulate handling your case or reach out to them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.