On August 3, 2020, USCIS published a Final Rule that changes many USCIS application filing fees. On average, the new amounts are 20% higher than the current numbers.
The last time USCIS updated its fee structure was in December 2016 by a weighted average increase of 21%.
This Final Rule also created new filing fees. For example, asylum applicants will now have to pay $50 to file for Asylum, making America one of the four countries in the world that charges for refugee status. Multiple fees are now established for nonimmigrant worker petitions (temporary work visas) and limiting the number of included family members on certain forms.
This final rule also encourages online filing by providing a $10 reduction in the fee for applicants who submit forms online that are electronically available from USCIS. Online filing is the most secure, efficient, cost-effective and convenient way to submit a request with USCIS.
The rule also removed certain fee waivers and fee exemptions, changed the premium processing time limits (extending them), and changed certain intercountry adoption procedures.
SUMMARY OF KEY ASPECTS OF THE FEE INCREASE FINAL RULE OF 08/03/2020:
· USCIS increased fees by an average of 20 percent.
· A new asylum fee of $50 was added.
· Removed some fee waivers and fee exemptions.
· New fees for temporary work visas.
In addition, the USCIS’s 08/03/2020 Final Rule authorizes creation of new and revised USCIS forms online, including:
· Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker;
· Form I-600/I-600A, Supplement 3, Request for Action on Approved Form I-600/I-600A;
· Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization; and
· Form I-912, Request for a Fee Waiver.
The old forms will still be accepted during a grace period for up to 60 days, but starting on October 2, 2020, new fees and new forms must be used by everyone.
The full Table of New Fees can be found in the final rule published at https://s3.amazonaws.com/public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2020-16389.pdf
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR IMMIGRATION APPLICANTS?
If you have been delaying or putting off filing for a Marriage Green Card, US Citizenship, Family Petition, or even Asylum, now is the perfect time to file before the fees are increased. If you file right now, you will be saving money.
Do not delay any longer! Call Shepelsky Law Group today at (718) 769-6352 to file for your immigration benefits for the current lower fees!
Shepelsky Law Group
Tel: 718-769-6352