Visa demand at the U.S. Consulate in Tijuana continues to climb, according to Consul General Christopher Teal. In 2024, the office processed 227,000 applications; this year, the number has already reached 270,000, underscoring the growing interest in traveling to the United States.

Teal noted that while demand is rising, applicants should exercise caution and avoid intermediaries who claim to “expedite” the process for a fee. “If the information doesn’t come directly from someone at the consulate, don’t believe it,” he warned. He also reminded students studying in the U.S. to maintain proper documentation and carry their permits at all times.

More Approvals in 2025

The increase in demand has been matched by a rise in approvals. From January through May, the consulate authorized 105,409 non-immigrant visas, up from 91,603 during the same period in 2024—a nearly 15 percent jump.

This trend coincides with adjustments to the visa process. Beginning September 2, 2025, children under 14 and adults over 79 will be required to attend in-person interviews with a consular officer, a step that was previously optional for many applicants.

Costs to Rise in 2026

Further changes are expected in 2026, when visa fees will increase under a new “visa integrity fee” announced by the Trump administration. The cost of a tourist visa will rise from $185 to $435, nearly doubling the expense for Mexican families seeking to travel north. The new fee is set to take effect with the 2026 tax year.