How to Pay the US Visa Fee Around the World (By Country)

Applying for a US visa is a significant step for travelers, students, workers, and families planning to visit or move to the United States. While completing the DS-160 form and preparing for the US visa interview are often discussed, one step that confuses many applicants is paying the US visa fee—also known as the MRV fee. Payment methods vary by country, with each US embassy or consulate offering different options such as bank transfers, mobile payments, or over-the-counter deposits. This guide walks you through how to pay the US visa fee depending on where you’re applying, and how Outbound Visa can help ensure you follow the correct process. Disclaimer: Embassy and visa rules can change quickly. Please always refer to the latest requirements on the official site. What is the MRV Fee? The Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee is a non-refundable payment required to process most non-immigrant visa applications. This includes tourist (B1/B2), student (F, J), and work-related (H, L, O) visas. The standard MRV fee is currently USD $185, though prices may vary depending on visa category. The fee must be paid before your visa interview can be scheduled. If you’re worried about what happens after payment, it’s worth reading about US visa processing times so you know what to expect next. How the MRV Fee Payment Works (In General) No matter where you're applying from, the general flow of MRV payment includes: 1. Complete the DS-160 form 2. Create a profile on the US Visa Appointment System 3. Select your visa type and review fee information 4. Choose a payment method (varies by country) 5. Complete payment and retain your receipt 6. Schedule your interview after payment is processed Outbound Visa guides applicants through each of these steps, helping you avoid errors or delays—especially when embassy portals can be unclear or outdated. How to Pay the US Visa Fee: Country-by-Country Breakdown Singapore • Payment Methods: Electronic bank transfer via DBS or POSB, mobile app transfers, over-the-counter at SingPost branches • Processing Time: Within 1 business day • Important Note: Receipt number from the payment must be entered when booking the interview Indonesia • Payment Methods: Bank transfer via Bank CIMB Niaga, teller deposit, or online payment via CIMB Niaga mobile app • Processing Time: Up to 2 business days • Things to Watch For: Many applicants use incorrect payment codes—this delays the entire process Malaysia • Payment Options: Maybank2u transfers, cash payments at Maybank branches, JomPAY (if enabled) • Processing Time: Usually within 24 hours • Pro Tip: Save both the receipt number and payment confirmation page Philippines • Payment Channels: Over-the-counter at BPI, online banking, or mobile payments (GCash under development) • Common Issue: Using the wrong reference number or missing the interview scheduling window Outbound Visa supports Filipino applicants navigating the complex US visa process, including scheduling via Manila and Cebu consulates. India • Available Methods: NEFT, IMPS, Axis Bank or Citibank over-the-counter, mobile banking • Processing Time: IMPS is fastest (same-day) • Mistake to Avoid: Using an incorrect UTR/Reference number can void your payment Vietnam • How to Pay: Bank payment via Agribank, cash payment, or mobile banking (limited options) • Processing Time: 1–2 business days • Special Note: Some receipts are handwritten and may not be accepted—photocopy all documents What Happens If You Pay the Wrong Amount or Use the Wrong Method? Mistakes in the visa fee payment can delay or void your application. Common issues include: • Selecting the wrong visa category • Entering the wrong receipt number when booking your appointment • Letting the receipt expire (receipts are only valid for a limited time) • Using payment channels not listed on the official embassy site If your payment leads to delays or even a denied application, you can refer to our guide on US visa rejection and next steps for recovery options. Tips for Successful Visa Fee Payment 1. Always double-check payment codes and instructions on the country-specific US Embassy site. 2. Use the exact name on your DS-160 and bank account to avoid mismatches. 3. Retain a copy of all receipts, both digital and printed. 4. Be aware of local bank holidays that may delay processing. 5. Schedule your appointment as soon as the system updates your payment—especially in countries with limited interview slots. For more help, see our guide on booking a US visa appointment. How Outbound Visa Helps Outbound Visa isn’t just here to help you fill out forms. We provide end-to-end assistance—including: • Reviewing your DS-160 before payment • Advising you on the correct MRV fee method based on your country • Monitoring your receipt and helping you schedule your interview • Supporting you if your payment is rejected or delayed Our expert team has supported applicants from Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and more. Whether you're applying for a tourist or student visa, we reduce the stress and increase your chances of a successful outcome. Final Thoughts Paying the MRV fee may seem like a simple administrative task, but when done incorrectly, it can lead to unnecessary delays or even visa rejections. By understanding the correct process for your country—and working with an experienced partner like Outbound Visa—you’ll move forward confidently. Every case is unique, and embassies may occasionally request documents not listed above. To avoid surprises, we recommend checking with our visa experts before you apply.