U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced a significant update affecting many individuals and organizations relying on its services. Effective February 26, 2024, the premium processing fees associated with Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing, and other eligible forms will be adjusted in response to the Consumer Price Index inflation rates from June 2021 through June 2023, marking the first increase in these fees in the past three years.
Why the Increase?
The USCIS Stabilization Act grants the Department of Homeland Security the authority to adjust premium processing fees biennially. The intention behind this recent adjustment is not only to reflect the inflation that has occurred over the past two years but also to enhance USCIS services. The additional revenue generated from the increased fees will be allocated towards improving premium processing services, enhancing adjudication processes, reducing processing backlogs, and funding other USCIS adjudication and naturalization services.
New Fee Structure:
The updated fee structure includes adjustments across several forms:
- Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) sees an increase from $1,500 to $1,685 for H-2B or R-1 nonimmigrant status and $2,500 to $2,805 for other classifications.
- Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker), associated with employment-based classifications, will increase from $2,500 to $2,805.
- Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status) and Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) for specific categories also increase to $1,965 and $1,685, respectively.
Impact on Applicants:
These changes underscore the importance of planning and budgeting for those in the process of or considering applying for immigration benefits that are eligible for premium processing. Applicants must ensure they know the new fees and comply with them when submitting their applications to avoid rejection.
Conclusion:
The inflation adjustment to USCIS’s premium processing fees is a significant update for all stakeholders in the immigration process. By understanding these changes, applicants can better prepare for their immigration journey.
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