USCIS Proposes New Fees: Have Your Say During the Comment Period

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Proposes New Fees.

• USCIS recently published a proposal to adjust certain immigration and naturalization benefit request fees.
• This proposal aims to help USCIS recover its total operating costs, maintain timely case processing, and prevent future case backlogs.
• The proposed fees, according to USCIS, are necessary due to the expansion of humanitarian programs, federally mandated pay raises, additional staffing requirements, and other essential investments.
• USCIS relies on filing fees for 96% of its funding, not congressional appropriations.
• The COVID-19 pandemic reduced the receipt of new applications and USCIS’s ability to adjudicate cases timely.

Proposed Changes to Immigration Filing Fees

• Some fees will increase, including naturalization applications.
• Low-income and vulnerable populations will still be eligible for fee waivers.
• New fee exemptions will be added for certain humanitarian programs.

New Measures Proposed by USCIS

• Biometrics costs will be incorporated into the main benefit fee.
• The separate biometric services fee will be removed.
• Separate fees will be established for each nonimmigrant classification covered by Form I-129.
• The premium processing timeframe will change from 15 calendar days to 15 business days.
• Lower fees will be instituted for certain forms filed online.

Impact of Proposed Fees Adjustments

• The projected revenue will allow USCIS to increase the number of adjudicators, implement technology improvements, and provide better support to individuals seeking information and assistance.
• The proposed fees aim to improve customer service operations and manage the incoming workload while upholding fairness, integrity, and respect.
• The proposed fees will also support the Administration’s effort to rebuild the legal immigration system.

Public Comment Period

• The public comment period started on January 4th and will end on March 13th.
• Submit your comments to help shape the final fee schedule.

Get Involved and Make Your Voice Heard

• Learn about the proposed fee adjustments by USCIS.
• Share your thoughts during the public comment period.
• Your comments will help shape the final fee schedule.
• Submit your comments before March 13th at the Federal Register