The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the key gatekeeper for immigration to the U.S, and understandably, it charges fees for processing immigration forms. From your visa application to your green card request, each step comes with its own USCIS filing fee, which collectively form almost all of the USCIS’s funding. Thus, comprehending these fees is fundamental for any immigration process, as it helps determine the costs applicable to your specific situation and assists you in budgeting your immigration process effectively. However, USCIS also understands that not everyone can afford these fees. This is where fee waivers come into the picture. A fee waiver is a formal request that exempts certain applicants from paying the filing fees for immigration forms and services. It is approved upon a proven incapacity to afford the fees, and eligibility is generally determined by demonstrating financial hardship.
The first thing to note is that USCIS filing fees are not static. They are subject to changes and the most recent fee schedule can be found on the USCIS website and the National Visa Center website. For instance, if an application or petition is postmarked or filed on or after the last update and does not include the new fees or a reduced fee, if applicable, USCIS would decline it. To give you a rough idea of the current fees, let’s take a few examples. Each immigrant petition typically costs $775, with an exception for birth siblings. Plus, there is a biometric services fee for each adult. For naturalization, you would use Form N-400, which currently costs $640. But remember, these figures are as of today and may vary in the future. So, always refer to the USCIS website for the latest fee information.
Next, we will delve into the details of fee waivers. As mentioned earlier, a fee waiver is a formal request to exempt the filing fees for specific immigration forms and services. To be deemed eligible for a USCIS fee waiver, an individual must effectively demonstrate their inability to cover the filing fees for an immigrant petition, which could be attributed to financial hardship or receipt of a means-tested benefit. So, how does one apply for a fee waiver? Individuals seeking to become lawful permanent residents can utilize Form I-912 or submit a written request that provides clear evidence of their inability to afford the filing fees. Remember, when applying for a fee waiver, documentation proving the applicant’s eligibility, such as evidence of receiving a means-tested benefit, is required.
With the knowledge of filing fees and fee waivers, we will now discuss the payment methods for these fees. USCIS accepts multiple modes of payment including:
But not cash. It’s a broad array of options, making it easy for applicants from various financial backgrounds to make the payment conveniently. But what about online payments? Yes, USCIS has embraced the digital age and allows applicants to make online payments for immigration services using a credit or debit card, or through bank withdrawal. Some forms like the Form I-131A even necessitate online payments. And here’s some good news for international applicants – you can use credit or debit cards from non-US banks to pay your USCIS filing fees.
Having navigated through the sea of USCIS filing fees and payment methods, we will now delve deeper to understand the key forms for permanent residence and citizenship. The necessary documents required to obtain permanent residency in the United States include Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) and Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative). The application process involves filing Form I-485, providing a U.S. address, and meeting other essential requirements for permanent resident status. The cost for this application can vary based on the specific case, and it is advisable to check the current fees on the USCIS website.
Regarding acquiring citizenship in the United States, necessary documents include Form N-445 (Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony) and Form N-600 (Certificate of Citizenship). The naturalization process involves completing the questionnaire on Form N-445 and attending the naturalization ceremony where the applicant will take the Oath of Allegiance.
A Lawful Permanent Resident Card, also known as a Green Card, is a vital document for immigrants in the U.S. The process of obtaining this card entails filing a petition and completing the Green Card application (Form I-485). The specific steps may differ based on whether the application is through employment, family, or as a special immigrant. One of the key forms involved in this process is Form I-130, which comes with a filing fee of $535.
Transitioning from permanent residency, if you aspire to become a U.S. citizen, you need to understand the naturalization process. It involves completing the questionnaire on Form N-445, Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony, and applying for U.S. citizenship by submitting Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. Please note that applying for US naturalization comes with a total cost of $725, consisting of a $640 filing fee for Form N-400 and an $85 biometric services fee. Also, proof of Green Card holder status is required, the N-400 application form, and supporting documents such as a U.S. birth certificate, Naturalization Certificate, or U.S. passport. The process typically takes around 10 months from the moment USCIS receives your application.
For non-permanent residents aspiring for employment within the U.S., an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a requirement. It functions as a work permit, affirming their lawful authorization for employment. To apply for an EAD, an individual must establish a USCIS account online and submit Form I-765 along with the required documentation to demonstrate eligibility for work authorization. The application fee for an EAD is $410, with potential exemptions for certain applicants based on their circumstances. Please note that the EAD can have a maximum validity of 5 years, but the actual validity period depends on the specific category of noncitizens who are employment-authorized.
While we’ve explained the crucial forms for permanent residence and citizenship, there are numerous other forms you may come across during the immigration process. These include various categories of immigrant and nonimmigrant visas, such as the I-687 for individuals seeking temporary resident status, and the I-698, used for adjusting from temporary to permanent resident status. For nonimmigrant visas, forms like the I-102 are utilized for purposes such as replacing or obtaining initial arrival-departure documents.
Quite often, individuals may wish to visit the United States temporarily for reasons such as tourism, business, study, or work. In such cases, a nonimmigrant visa is what you need. Every visa applicant is required to submit the visa application processing fee for the specific visa category being applied for, unless the application fee is exempted. The filing fees for certain petition-based nonimmigrant visas for temporary workers (H, L, O, P, Q, and R categories) are set to increase from $190 to $205. Also, the application processing fee for non-petition-based nonimmigrant visas (except E category) will increase from $160 to $245. Remember, these fees are non-refundable and vary according to the specific visa category.
On the other hand, if you’re planning on permanent relocation to the United States, you need an immigrant visa. These visas serve a variety of purposes such as:
The fee for the Diversity Visa Lottery is $330 per person. This applies to those applying as a DV program selectee for a DV category immigrant visa. The USCIS filing fee for family-sponsored visas fee varies, subject to variation based on the specific visa category and individual circumstances.
In addition to the standard forms discussed above, there are a few other forms that you may come across during your immigration journey. For instance, if you’re a nonimmigrant worker, you might need:
There are also uscis forms like:
If you’re using the USCIS I-131 form to request a re-entry permit, refugee travel document, or travel authorization document, you need to be physically present in the U.S. at the time of application submission and undergo the biometrics services process. Lastly, if you’re seeking a work permit, commonly referred to as the EAD, you’ll need to submit the USCIS I-765 form.
Just as immigration laws change with time, USCIS filing fees also undergo changes. Staying updated with these changes is significant, as they can considerably influence your immigration journey. The USCIS’ proposed fee increase for immigration filing fees is expected to be finalized and could potentially take effect as early as late 2023 or early 2024. For instance, the adjustment of status application fee is projected to rise from the current fee of $1,760 to over $3,500.
Moreover, the total fees for transitioning from a K-1 Fiancé Visa to securing a Marriage Green card are anticipated to surge by almost 90%. These changes signify substantial rises in visa expenses in the coming year.
Staying updated with fee changes is not as challenging as it may seem. The USCIS website’s page on filing fees and the USCIS archive page on fees are the most reliable sources for staying updated on USCIS filing fee changes. USCIS fee changes are communicated to the public through proposed rules with a public comment period, where the changes are outlined and the public has the opportunity to provide comments.
Historically, USCIS fee changes have occurred in December 2016 and November 2010. These changes are usually carried out to cover the USCIS’s operational expenses, ensure efficient case processing, and avoid delays in decision-making.
Fee increases can profoundly affect applicants. For instance, the fee increase from $725 to $760 for naturalization creates an additional financial obstacle for applicants, and the potential 130% increase in the cost to apply for a green card significantly affects individuals seeking to adjust their status. On average, USCIS immigration fees have increased by 21% over the past five years, reflecting a consistent upward trajectory. However, it is important to note that the increase in USCIS fees does not directly impact an applicant’s eligibility for fee waivers. Fee waivers are determined based on the applicant’s proven inability to pay the fees, and this determination is not influenced by the fee hikes.
Having covered the different forms, fees, and recent updates, we now proceed to the actual application process. Preparing an immigration application involves gathering the necessary documents, filling out the appropriate forms, and submitting them to USCIS. The required documents often include two passport-style photographs, a copy of the Form I-551 (Permanent Resident Card) or Alien Registration Receipt Card, Form I-766 (Employment Authorization Document Card), and CBP Electronic I-94. To minimize errors when completing immigration forms, it is important to use the appropriate forms, fill them out using black ink, provide all necessary information, meet all deadlines, and submit original documents only when explicitly requested. Once your forms are filled out and documents gathered, you can proceed to submit your application. Applications can be submitted either online by creating a USCIS online account and completing all sections of the form, or by assembling the application, petition, or request in the recommended order and sending it by mail to the correct USCIS address. Following the submission of an immigration application, USCIS initiates the processing of the application. The following procedures will vary depending on the type of application.
Collecting the required documentation for your immigration application is an essential step. The essential documents needed for USCIS immigration applications include:
If any document is not in English, it is essential to ensure that it is accompanied by a complete and accurate English translation. This translation must be certified by the translator as well as a certification of their competence to translate the foreign language into English.
While filling out your forms, ensure to:
If possible, use fillable forms in PDF format provided by USCIS to type your answers directly. You can submit your application online by creating a USCIS account or by mailing the completed forms to the correct USCIS address.
After the submission of your immigration application, you might question, “What’s next?” Well, the typical processing timeframe for USCIS immigration applications varies, typically ranging from 3 months to 20 months, depending on the specific type of application being submitted. Factors like the form processing time and policy changes can significantly affect the overall processing time. Once your application is processed, you may experience one of the following outcomes:
If you have submitted original documents in response to a USCIS request, they will be returned to you. You can monitor your case status online using the case status tool and your 13-character receipt number.
Navigating the world of USCIS immigration forms and filing fees can be overwhelming, but with the right information and resources, it becomes a manageable task. This guide provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the various forms, fees, and processes involved in your immigration journey. Remember, the key to a successful immigration process is staying informed, being organized, and staying updated with changes in USCIS policies and fees. So, embark on your immigration journey with confidence, knowing that you are well-equipped to navigate the process.
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