Preparing for Upcoming Changes in Immigration Application Costs
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is set to implement significant fee increases for various immigration applications starting April 1, 2024. This marks the first major adjustment in fees since 2016 and aims to address the agency’s operational and financial challenges as an annual shortfall due to increased operational costs and a decrease in the number of applications
Understanding the USCIS Fee Increase
The impending fee hike will notably affect family-based immigration applications, among others. Here’s a quick summary of the updated fees:
- Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): Up 26% to $675 (paper filing), $625 (online).
- Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)): Increased to $675, a 26% rise.
- Form I-485 (Application for Permanent Residence or Adjust Status): Now $1,440, an 18% increase, with additional costs for employment authorization and advance parole, $260 and $630, respectively.
The immigration benefits and the corresponding application fees are shown in the chart below. See the “New Fee” section to learn how the price rise might affect your application.
Immigration Benefit | Current Fee | New Fee (April 2024) | Fee Increase | |
I-129 for H-1 Classifications | $460 | $780 | (+) $320 | 📈 70% |
I-129 Petition for L Nonimmigrant workers | $460 | $1,385 | (+) $925 | 📈 201% |
I-129 Petition for O Nonimmigrant workers | $460 | $1,055 | (+) $595 | 📈 129% |
I-129 Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker: E, H-3, P, Q, R, or TN Classifications | $460 | $1,015 | (+) $555 | 📈 121% |
I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status | $1,140 | $1,440 | (+) $300 | 📈 26% |
I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (with biometric services) | $1,225 | $1,440 | (+) $215 | 📈 18% |
I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (under the age of 14 in certain conditions) | $750 | $950 | (+) $200 | 📈 27% |
Employment-based fee changes
The cost of employment-based green cards and work visa categories will increase in addition to family-based immigration. The following are some of the new filing fees you should be aware of under USCIS’s new fee structure if you have a work visa or are a U.S. employer sponsoring a foreign worker:
Immigration/Visa Benefit | Current Fee | New Fee (April 2024) | Fee Increase |
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): H-1 Classification | $460 | $780 | (+) $320 |
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): H-2A Classification | $460 | $1,090 | (+) $630 |
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): H-2B Classification | $460 | $1,080 | (+) $620 |
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): L Classification | $460 | $1,385 | (+) $925 |
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): O Classification | $460 | $1,055 | (+) $595 |
Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) | $700 | $715 | (+) $15 |
Form I-907 (Request for Premium Processing) | $2,500 | $2,805 | (+) $305 |
Strategies for Managing the USCIS Fee Hike
Applicants, particularly those pursuing family-based immigration, are advised to submit their applications before April 1, 2024, to benefit from the current lower fees. Ensuring accuracy and completeness in submissions is crucial to avoid delays or rejections as the deadline approaches.
Background of the USCIS Fee Revision
USCIS operates primarily on a fee-funded model, making periodic fee adjustments vital for its functioning. The fee structure since 2016 has fallen short of meeting operational costs, exacerbated by a decline in applications due to the COVID-19 pandemic and mounting application backlogs.
Implications for Applicants and Employers
The fee increase has substantial implications for both individual applicants and employers. Those applying for H-1B, L-1, and other visas will face increased financial burdens. Employers will see significant increases in the fees they pay to submit petitions for workers and to sponsor employees for permanent residence.
Conclusion
The USCIS fee increase represents a significant shift in the cost structure of various immigration-related applications and petitions. Understanding these changes, their implications, and planning accordingly will be crucial for applicants and employers alike.
For more detailed information and specific fee schedules, it’s recommended to visit the USCIS website or consult with our immigration lawyers to navigate these changes effectively.
FAQs on USCIS Fee Increase and Processes
Why is USCIS increasing its fees?
- USCIS is primarily fee-funded, and the current fee schedule from 2016 does not cover their operational costs. The increased fees are necessary to maintain service levels and avoid backlogs.
When were USCIS fees last increased?
- The last major update to the USCIS fee schedule was implemented on December 23, 2016.
What are the key changes in the new USCIS fee schedule?
- The new fee schedule limits increases to a maximum of 26% for most individual filers, offers special discounts for nonprofits and small employers, and maintains low fees for naturalization and adoption applications.
Are there any fee waivers available under the new USCIS fee structure?
- Yes, USCIS continues to offer fee waivers for certain forms and applicants, including asylees, refugees, and victims of human trafficking and domestic violence.
How can applicants pay USCIS filing fees?
- Fees can be paid online, by mail, or in person, using various methods such as credit/debit cards, bank drafts, cashier’s checks, certified checks, personal or business checks, and money orders.
Will the USCIS fee increase impact processing times?
- USCIS aims to use the additional revenue to address application backlogs and improve processing times, though the exact impact will depend on various factors.
Are there any changes to the fee structure for asylum applications?
- Yes, under the new rule, there will be a $50 fee for asylum applications, and the first employment authorization application for asylum seekers will no longer be fee-exempt.
What options are available for those who cannot afford the increased fees?
- USCIS provides fee waivers and exemptions for eligible individuals, including those with household incomes below certain thresholds and those applying for certain humanitarian benefits.