The United States has postponed the enforcement of a $250 visa surcharge, initially set to take effect on October 1, 2025, as outlined in the One Big Beautiful Bill signed by President Donald Trump in July. The State Department has yet to confirm a new implementation timeline, leaving applicants from non-visa waiver countries, including Jamaica, in limbo. Once enacted, the surcharge will increase the total visa application cost to $435 per applicant, as it adds to the existing $185 fee. The Department of Homeland Security will oversee the collection of this fee, which is intended to bolster immigration enforcement, deter visa overstays, and fund border security initiatives. Notably, the surcharge is refundable for visa holders who comply with all visa terms and depart the U.S. within five days of expiration or after legally adjusting their status. However, the lack of clear refund procedures has sparked concerns that many travelers may never reclaim the fee. Critics argue that the surcharge disproportionately affects low-income travelers and could discourage tourism and commerce, particularly from Caribbean nations like Jamaica. In 2024, the U.S. issued 83,957 B1/B2 visas to Jamaicans, and while 2025 figures remain unavailable, immigration attorneys believe the surcharge may not significantly deter applicants. Nevertheless, the additional financial burden—amounting to $1,000 for a family of four—could impact travel plans for events such as weddings, funerals, or vacations.