UPDATE: USCIS HAS ANNOUNCED NEW FILING FEES WILL TAKE EFFECT ON APRIL 1, 2024.

What has USCIS proposed?

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has proposed significant increases in filing fees. Filing fees will be increasing for nearly all applications and petitions. The weighted average increase is 40%. 

Why is USCIS increasing filing fees?

USCIS has justified the increase in filing fees as necessary to cover its operating costs and improve service efficiency. It has further justified the increase by citing the fact that filing fees have not been adjusted in 8 years and have not kept pace with inflation.

What are some of the key changes?

The proposal is under review by the Office of Management and Budget and is expected to be implemented this Spring. The proposed fee increases include:

• The filing fee for an application for naturalization is expected to increase from $640 to $760.
• The filing fee for an immigrant petition for alien relative is expected to increase from $535 to $710 or $820 depending upon how it is filed.
• The filing fee for a fiancé visa petition is expected to increase from $535 to $720.
• The filing fee for an application to adjust status to lawful permanent resident is expected to increase from $1,140 to $1,540. 
• The filing fee for an investor visa through a regional center is expected to increase from $3,675 to $11,160.
• The H-1B cap registration fee is expected to increase from $10 to $215.
• Filing fees for accompanying children will no longer be discounted.
• The $85 biometrics fees will no longer be required in most cases.

You can find a complete list of the proposed fee increases in the Federal Register.

Do You Need Assistance With Your Immigration Case?

The publication of the final rule can come at any day. Petitions and applications postmarked before the effective date of the rule will not be subject to the price increases.If you have been contemplating filing an application or petition with USCIS, it is best to start now to avoid the increased fees. 

The law team at Cohen, Tucker + Ades can help. Contact us for a consultation on your immigration case. After reviewing the details, we’ll be able to provide you with the best options and solutions for your situation.

Sources:

• USCIS Proposed Fee Rule | U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
• Proposed Fee Rule Frequently Asked Questions | U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services