US Proposes Steep Fee Hikes for H-1B Visas and Green Cards

Navigating the US immigration system could soon become significantly more expensive, with proposed fee increases of up to 2050% for certain categories. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is seeking to address a funding shortfall through a comprehensive fee review, but the proposals have sparked concern among advocates and applicants.

Anticipated Fee Changes:

• H-1B E-registration Fee:

Current: $10

Proposed: $215 (2050% increase)

• H-1B Visa Application Petition Fee:

Current: $460

Proposed: $780 (70% increase)

• L Visa Petition Fee (Intra-Company Transfer):

Current: $460

Proposed: $1,385 (201% increase)

• EB-5 Investor Petition Fee (Investment-linked Green Card):

Current: $3,675

Proposed: $11,160 (204% increase)

• EB-5 Investor Petition to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status (with Biometric Services):

Current: $3,835

Proposed: $9,525 (148% increase)

• Application for Employment Authorization (Online):

Current: $410

Proposed: $555 (35% increase)

• Application for Employment Authorization (Paper Filing):

Current: $410

Proposed: $650 (59% increase)

• Application to Adjust to Green Card Status (with Biometric Services):

Current: $1,225

Proposed: $1,540 (26% increase)

• Application for Citizenship (Online or Paper Filing):

Current: $640

Proposed: $760 (19% increase)

The USCIS justifies these increases by citing a need to cover operating costs and prevent future backlogs. However, the significant hikes, particularly for H-1B visas and EB-5 investor programs, have drawn criticism from individuals and organizations who argue they will disproportionately burden skilled workers and potential investors.

The proposed fee rule is expected to be finalized in December 2023 or January 2024, with an effective date of 60-90 days. With such substantial increases on the horizon, navigating the US immigration process is likely to become even more complex and expensive for many applicants.