Overview
Effective February 26, 2024, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) implemented revised premium processing fees to account for inflation from June 2021 through June 2023. This adjustment affects various forms and visa classifications, enhancing processing services and reducing backlogs.
Key Fee Adjustments:
- Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker:
- H-2B or R-1 nonimmigrant status:
- Previous Fee: $1,500
- New Fee: $1,685
- All other available Form I-129 classifications (e.g., E-1, E-2, E-3, H-1B, L-1A, L-1B, O-1, P-1, TN-1, and TN-2):
- Previous Fee: $2,500
- New Fee: $2,805
- H-2B or R-1 nonimmigrant status:
- Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker:
- Previous Fee: $2,500
- New Fee: $2,805
- Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status:
- Previous Fee: $1,750
- New Fee: $1,965
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization (Certain F-1 students with categories C03A, C03B, C03C):
- Previous Fee: $1,500
- New Fee: $1,685
USCIS will reject any Form I-907 postmarked on or after February 26, 2024, that does not include the correct filing fee. The postmark date is determined by the courier receipt for filings sent by commercial courier services.
People Also Ask (PAA):
- What is premium processing with USCIS?
- Premium processing is an optional service that allows petitioners to expedite processing certain employment-based visa petitions and applications by paying an additional fee.
- Which forms are eligible for premium processing?
- Forms I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) and I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) are eligible for premium processing.
- How long does USCIS take to process premium processing requests?
- USCIS guarantees processing within 15 calendar days for premium processing requests.
- Can premium processing fees change in the future?
- Yes, USCIS may adjust premium processing fees in the future to account for inflation or other operational costs.
- Is premium processing available for all visa categories?
- No, premium processing is available only for specific visa categories and forms.
- Can I request premium processing after filing my petition?
- You can request premium processing after filing your petition by submitting Form I-907 with the appropriate Fee.
- Does premium processing guarantee approval of my petition?
- No, premium processing guarantees expedited processing but does not influence the petition’s outcome.
- What happens if USCIS does not process my premium processing request within the specified time?
- If USCIS fails to process the premium processing request within the specified time, they will refund the premium processing fee.
- Can premium processing be suspended?
- USCIS can suspend premium processing services for specific visa categories as needed.
- Where can I find the most current USCIS fee schedule?
- The most current USCIS fee schedule is available on the official USCIS website.
For updates on the latest USCIS fees and processing times, visit the official USCIS website or consult an immigration professional.
Conclusion
The USCIS premium processing fee increase is an essential update for employers, H-1B applicants, green card seekers, and international students using expedited services for their visa petitions. While the fee adjustments account for inflation, premium processing remains an essential tool for those who need faster decision-making on employment-based applications.
Key Takeaways:
- New premium processing fees are effective from February 26, 2024—ensure correct payment to avoid rejection.
- Premium processing guarantees 15-day processing but does not guarantee approval.
- The fee increase applies to key visa forms, including I-129 (H-1B, L-1, O-1), I-140 (employment-based green cards), and I-765 (certain F-1 work authorizations).
- Stay updated on future fee changes, as USCIS may adjust them further to cover operational costs.
- Consult immigration professionals if you’re unsure about filing with the correct Fee or want to assess your options for faster processing.
For the latest USCIS updates, visa fee changes, and expert insights on premium processing, visit cpthunt.org—your trusted resource for navigating U.S. work visa processes!
