2024 US Immigration Fee Surge Alert

The cost of filing various U.S. immigration applications and petitions is set to rise in 2024. Starting February 26, 2024, premium processing fees for specific applications will increase:

• H2-B, R-1, and I-765 applications for certain F-1 students will rise from $1,500 to $1,685.
• I-539 extension or change of status petitions will increase from $1,750 to $1,965.
• I-129 based petitions and I-140s will jump from $2,500 to $2,805.

In addition to these changes, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will implement significant hikes for various other immigration benefits. Notable increases include:

• Fiancé visa petition: A 35% increase from $535 to $720.
• Family-based IV petitions (paper format): A 53% surge from $535 to $820.
• Online I-130 applications: A 33% hike from $535 to $710.
• Removal of conditions application: A substantial 76% increase, jumping from $680 to $1,195.

The USCIS will no longer waive fees for adjustment of status applicants seeking employment authorization (Form I-765) or a travel document (Form I-131) with a pending I-485 application. The new fee schedule will charge separate fees for Forms I-485, I-765, and I-131, increasing the cost to $2,820.

Additionally, a $600 charge will be added to all I-129 Nonimmigrant Worker Petitions and all I-140 Immigrant Petitions. These fee increases are expected to take effect around March 2024. Note that the rise in H-1B registration fees will not impact H-1B CAP registrations for FY2025, and applications postmarked before the new rule’s implementation will not be subject to increased fees. Stay informed and plan accordingly for these impending changes.