What is the ruling on paying a non-refundable fee of 500 Syrian Pounds to subscribe to an interest-free financial loan service from the Cooperative Fund?

The basic principle is that any increase stipulated on a loan constitutes usury (riba). However, if this increase is confirmed to be for administrative expenses, then there is no harm in it. It is permissible to take fees for loan services within the limits of actual expenses. Any increase beyond that is considered usury. These expenses are a fee, and the fund has the right not to refund them if the borrower no longer wishes to proceed.