USCIS Fees to Increase in April 1, 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has officially released its final rule ushering in notable increases in fees for a range of immigration applications. This marks the first substantial adjustment in fees since 2016 and aims to tackle the operational and financial issues faced by the agency. These revised fees are scheduled to be implemented on April 1, 2024, applying to all relevant applications postmarked on or after this date, reflecting the new costs.
UPDATED IMMIGRATION FEES AT A GLANCE
Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative), commonly used for family reunification, including marriage-based green cards, will go up to $675 for paper filing, and $625 for those filing online.
Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)), essential for individuals who intend to bring their fiancé(e) to the U.S., will increase from $535 to $675.
Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status), used by those seeking a green card or permanent residency without leaving the U.S., will also go up for the standalone application (from $1,225 to $1,440). However, two formally free sub-applications within the adjustment of status process – employment authorization and advance parole – will now cost an additional $260 and $630, respectively.
DACA renewals will increase from $495 to $605 for paper filing, while it will be $555 for online filing, in line with fees for employment authorization (Form I-765).
AP (Advance Parole) will increase from $575 to $630
Fee exemptions remain for Special Immigrant Juveniles and victims of human trafficking, crime, and domestic violence; and U.S. military service members.
View Frequently Asked Questions on the USCIS Fee Rule here.
The final rule will be in effect as of April 1, 2024. Meaning any application or petition postmarked on or after April 1, 2024, will be subject to the new fees. If USCIS has already received your application or petition, your application will be processed under the current fees.
STRATEGIES FOR APPLICANTS
Potential applicants, particularly those contemplating family-based immigration, are encouraged to submit their applications before the looming April 1 deadline to take advantage of the existing lower fees. Ensuring accuracy and completeness in application submissions is crucial to avoiding potential delays or rejections, especially as the deadline approaches. Our attorneys can help make sure your application is timely and correct. Call us at 414-533-5000 for questions and appointments.