On August 29, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) launched a major update to its fee payment process, allowing applicants to pay filing fees via electronic debit directly from a U.S. bank account using Form G‑1650[1]. This change, mandated by Executive Order 14247[5], marks a significant step toward modernizing USCIS operations and reducing reliance on paper-based payments.
What’s New
USCIS now accepts ACH debit payments using Form G‑1650[1], which applicants can submit along with their applications, petitions, or requests. This method operates alongside the existing credit card option using Form G‑1450[2].
Transition Timeline
- Effective immediately: Applicants may use Form G‑1650 for ACH debit payments.
- Until October 28, 2025: USCIS will continue to accept paper checks and money orders, in addition to ACH debit and credit card payments[1].
- After October 28, 2025: Only ACH debit (Form G‑1650) or credit card (Form G‑1450) payments will be accepted[1].
Why This Change Matters
The modernization aligns with Executive Order 14247[5], which seeks to improve federal payment systems. USCIS points out that over 90% of current payments are paper‑based, causing delays, fraud risks, and lost or stolen checks and money orders. Electronic payments offer greater security, faster processing, and operational efficiency[1].
Important Considerations for Applicants
- Applicants must ensure their U.S. bank account has sufficient funds; a denied transaction may result in rejection of the application[3].
- Form G‑1650 is only available for U.S. bank accounts; applicants without one should use Form G‑1450 with a credit or prepaid card[2].
- The USCIS Policy Manual has been updated to formally accept ACH debit payments using Form G‑1650[3].
- An ACH Debit Block on the bank account may require applicants to whitelist USCIS’s Agency Location Codes (ALC+2) before the transaction[3].
Conclusion
USCIS’s move to electronic fee payments via Form G‑1650 ushers in a faster, more secure filing era. With paper methods being phased out by October 28, 2025, applicants should adapt now and ensure they choose the right payment method.
Key points to remember:
- Submit Form G‑1650 for ACH debit or Form G‑1450 for credit/debit/prepaid cards.
- Monitor the October 28th deadline for accepting paper payments.
- Verify bank account readiness to avoid rejected applications.
Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer
Citations
We Can Help!
If you have questions regarding filing fees for your visa application, we invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people to work and live in the United States. Please read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
Contact Us
