On September 28, 2015, in accordance with the principle of reciprocity and following U.S. laws and regulations, all Mauritanian tourist visa recipients (visa class B) will be charged an additional $70 issuance fee. This fee will not affect other visa classes.
In March, the Embassy was made aware that Mauritania charges U.S. citizens $230 for 12 month, multiple entry B visa equivalents. After careful deliberations and in accordance with the principle of reciprocity, following U.S. laws and regulations by which the United States and Mauritania have consistently abided by for Consular issues, the United States Department of State has determined that the United States must adjust its fees for B visas issued to nationals of Mauritania. Currently our B visa MRV fee is $160. Because of the increase in Mauritania’s fees, it was determined by using our reciprocity fee equation that the fee for a U.S. tourist visa will be increased by $70 ($230 – $160 = $70). This fee must be paid prior to issuance at the Embassy in either U.S. dollars or Ouguiya equivalent. Denied applications will not be charged this additional fee (the application fee of $160 will still be required). The reciprocity fee and length of visa eligibility can be reconsidered in future if reciprocal changes are made for U.S. citizens.