Consular Fees in the USA are calculated using the consular rate of exchange which is, as of 8 June 2009, £1 = $1.70

It is the British Government's policy that fees for consular services should be set to recover the full costs involved without being subsidised from UK general taxation.

The fees are therefore calculated on the basis of the full cost (staff, accommodation and overheads) proportionate to the average time taken to perform the service. The fees are calculated in sterling and are applied on a world-wide basis. They are reviewed annually. All our posts have a statutory requirement to implement them. The calculations are scrutinised by HM Treasury, approved by the Privy Council and laid before Parliament. The method is one operated generally by Government departments offering cost-recoverable services.

Method of Payment
Payment is generally made in the country where the service is performed, is normally levied in advance and must be made in local currency.

Click here for a list of the most commonly requested fees in the USA. 

Here you will find more information on consular fees including the "consular fees order 2009".