The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued its final rule, implementing substantial fee increases for numerous immigration applications. This adjustment marks the first significant change since 2016 and aims to tackle the agency’s operational and financial hurdles. Effective April 1, 2024, the new fees will be applied to all applications postmarked after this date, reflecting higher costs.
This fee hike carries significant ramifications, notably impacting family-based immigration applications, which are among the most affected categories. This article delineates the updated application costs, the timeline of implementation, and strategies to mitigate the impact of increased fees for prospective applicants.
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Updated Immigration Fees at a Glance
• Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative), commonly utilized for family reunification purposes, including marriage green cards, will see a 26% increase to $675 for paper filing and $625 for online filing.
• Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)), crucial for individuals intending to bring their fiancé(e) to the U.S., will rise from $535 to $675 (a 26% increase).
• Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status), employed by those pursuing a green card or permanent residency, will also experience an 18% increase for standalone applications (from $1,225 to $1,440). However, two previously free applications within the adjustment of status process, namely employment authorization and advance parole, will now incur additional costs of $260 and $630, respectively.
How to Calculate the Increased USCIS Costs
The following chart provides a breakdown of anticipated immigration benefits alongside their corresponding application fees. To gauge how the price hike might affect your application, consult the “New Fee” column.
| Immigration Benefit | Current Fee | New Fee (April 2024) | Fee Increase |
| K-1 Fiancé Visa | $535 | $675 | $140 |
| CR-1 Spousal Visa | $535 | $675 | $140 |
| Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) without Work or Travel Permits | $1,225 | $1,440 | $215 |
| Adjustment of Status Form I-765 Work Permit (Optional) | $0 when filed with an Adjustment of Status | $260 when filed with an Adjustment of Status | $260 |
| Adjustment of Status Form I-131 Travel Permit (Optional) | $0 when filed with an Adjustment of Status | $630 | $630 |
| Adjustment of Status with Form I-130 + Work and Travel Permits | $1,760 | $3,005 | $1,245 |
Employment-Based Fee Changes
Apart from family-based immigration, work visa classifications and employment-based green cards will also experience an increase in fees effective April 1. If you are a work visa holder or a U.S. employer sponsoring foreign workers, here are some of the anticipated new filing costs under USCIS’ revised fee structure:
| 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 Applicants
Potential applicants, particularly those contemplating family-based immigration, are encouraged to submit their applications prior to the April 1 deadline to take advantage of the current reduced fees. Ensuring accuracy and completeness in application submissions is crucial to avoid delays or rejections, especially as the deadline approaches. Roberson Law, LLC. is available to assist in ensuring your application is both timely and accurate.
Contact Roberson Law today to get representation for your immigration case.
Background of the Fee Increase
USCIS stands out among federal agencies due to its reliance on application fees rather than taxes or congressional funding to sustain its operations. This self-sufficient funding approach underscores the importance of periodic adjustments to fee structures for the agency’s functionality.
Since 2016, USCIS has grappled with a fee structure insufficient to cover its operational expenses. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this financial strain by precipitating a notable decline in immigration applications, resulting in decreased revenue. Compounding these challenges, the agency has faced difficulties managing a mounting backlog of applications while striving to maintain satisfactory levels of customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Fee Increase
How do I calculate the new fees for my application?
USCIS provides a fee calculator on its website. Applicants can input their specific case details to get an estimate of the new fees they will need to pay post-April 2024.
Are there fee waivers available under the new structure?
Yes, USCIS continues to offer fee waivers for specific forms and applicants who demonstrate an inability to pay. Applicants should check the USCIS website for the latest information on fee waivers.
When exactly will these new fees come into effect?
The new fees are scheduled to be implemented April 1, 2024.
How will this fee increase impact processing times?
USCIS aims to use the additional revenue to address application backlogs and improve processing times. However, the impact will depend on various factors, including application volume and staffing.
Stay Updated:
For the full list of fee changes and the latest information, it’s best to check the You can follow USCIS or visit their website directly- https://uscis.gov. You can also follow us, Roberson Law, LLC. For updates on immigration news.
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