Come April 1, 2024, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee structure is about to change. For those in the process of immigration, understanding these fee increases is paramount.
Online Filing Discount
For forms where USCIS offers online filing, applicants can benefit from a $50 discount compared to traditional paper filing. Opting for online submission both expedites the processing of applications and, starting April 1, will save you a bit of money.
Separate Filing Fees for Forms I-485, I-131, and I-765
USCIS is introducing separate filing fees for Form I-485 (adjustment of status), Form I-131 (travel document), and Form I-765 (employment authorization). This means that, instead of the current fee for an Adjustment of Status (which includes biometrics, work authorization, and travel document included), applicants will now be required to pay the the filing fee for each application, bringing the cost from $1,225 to $2,330. Applicants with a pending or concurrent Form I-485 will receive a 50% discount on the I-765 employment authorization filing fee. See the USCIS Fee Comparison Chart for a more explicit breakdown. Beginning April 1, the biometrics fee will be included in both the standard and reduced fees.
Form N-400: Naturalization Application
There’s good news for Naturalization (N-400) applicants with household incomes between 150% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG). They now qualify for a reduced naturalization fee of $380, expanding eligibility beyond the previous threshold of 150% to 200% of the FPG. This adjustment aims to make the naturalization process more accessible to a broader range of individuals and families. You must complete Form I-942, Request for Reduced Fee with the adjusted fee to request a reduced filing fee. As of April 1, the biometrics fee will be included in both the standard and reduced fees.
Fee Exemptions for Adoptees
Another significant change pertains to adoptees seeking Certificates of Citizenship and naturalization based on adoption. USCIS will now provide fee exemptions for these applications. This is meant to ease the financial burden for adoptive families and individuals pursuing citizenship through adoption.
These changes to the USCIS filing fees mark an effort to enhance accessibility, efficiency, and fairness within the immigration system. USCIS strives to make the immigration process more inclusive and manageable for all individuals and families seeking to call the United States their home. As these adjustments take effect on April 1, 2024, staying informed and understanding your options is key to navigating the immigration journey successfully. Contact your paralegal or send us a message for questions regarding these fee adjustments.