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What is the Fraud Detection Fee and who has to pay it?
The Fraud Detection and Prevention Fee is a mandatory fee that every L1 Blanket visa applicant must pay. It applies to both L1A and L1B categories — there are no exceptions. If you are appearing for an L1 Blanket interview at a U.S. Consulate, this fee is yours to pay.
When exactly do you pay this fee?
This is where a lot of applicants get confused. You do not pay this fee in advance. You do not pay it at biometrics. You pay it on the day of your visa interview, once you are inside the embassy. Keep that timing in mind so you are not scrambling to arrange payment at the last minute.
How can you pay — and which method should you choose?
There are three accepted payment methods: cash, credit card, or a demand draft. My strong recommendation is to go with a demand draft. Here is why the other two options carry risk.
Why cash and credit card can let you down
Cash is sometimes not accepted inside the embassy — and you will not know until you are already at the window. Credit card has been causing problems more recently, with technical glitches reported at the consulate. Neither of these is something you want to deal with on the day of your interview.
Why a demand draft is the safest option
A demand draft lets you prepare everything in advance and walk in knowing it is ready. You simply present it at the time of your interview without any uncertainty.
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Book a Mock InterviewThree things to get right when you prepare your demand draft
Getting the demand draft wrong is a common mistake. Here are the three details you must check before you leave the bank.
1. Use the correct exchange rate
The demand draft amount is calculated in Indian rupees, but the fee is denominated in US dollars. You must use the current consular exchange rate when calculating the rupee amount. The current consular rate is 92 rupees to the dollar — use this rate, not your bank's standard rate or any other rate you find online.
2. Address it to the American Embassy
The demand draft must be made payable to the American Embassy. This is non-negotiable — an incorrectly addressed draft will not be accepted.
3. Write your personal details on the back
On the reverse side of the demand draft, write your phone number, email address, and passport number. This is a requirement, so make sure it is filled in before your interview day.
Need help preparing for your L1 Blanket interview?
If you have questions about the DS-160 form or want personalised preparation support ahead of your interview, I am here to help. Reach out by leaving a comment or sending me a direct message — I will get back to you.
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