In a move that will impact millions of immigration applicants, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced new filing fees set to take effect in October 2025. This adjustment marks the first comprehensive fee update since 2016 and aims to better reflect current processing costs and improve agency operations.
Whether you’re applying for a green card, work visa, naturalization, or sponsoring a relative, it’s important to understand how these new fees will affect you and when they’ll apply.
Why Are USCIS Fees Changing?
USCIS is primarily funded through application fees—not taxpayer dollars. Over the past decade, the agency has faced mounting operational costs, case backlogs, and increased demand for services. The new fee rule is designed to:
- Recover the full cost of processing applications
- Hire more staff and reduce processing delays
- Modernize USCIS operations and expand digital services
According to USCIS, the new structure also supports expanded humanitarian programs and ensures equity by offering fee waivers and reduced rates for qualifying low-income applicants.
When Do the New Fees Take Effect?
The updated fees will apply to all applications and petitions postmarked or submitted on or after October 1, 2025.
If you file before this date, your application will be processed under the current (lower) fee schedule. Submitting early may save you hundreds of dollars depending on the form.
Key Fee Increases and Changes
Below is a breakdown of some of the most notable changes (compared to 2024 fees):
| Form | Description | Current Fee | New Fee (Oct 2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | $535 | $675 |
| I-485 | Adjustment of Status (Green Card) | $1,140 + $85 biometrics | $1,540 (biometrics included) |
| N-400 | Application for Naturalization | $640 + $85 biometrics | $810 (biometrics included) |
| I-765 | Employment Authorization Document (EAD) | $410 | $555 |
| I-129 (H-1B) | Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker | $460 | $780 |
| I-131 | Advance Parole Travel Document | $575 | $630 |
New Online Discounts: USCIS will now offer reduced fees for online filings of select forms—typically $50–$100 less than paper submissions. Applicants are encouraged to create a USCIS online account for easier and cheaper access.
What’s Staying the Same?
- Asylum applications (Form I-589) remain free
- Fee waivers are still available for applicants with financial hardship, based on income thresholds or public benefits participation
- Naturalization fee waivers continue for veterans, low-income applicants, and others under specific guidelines
Tips for Applicants
File Early If You Can
If you qualify now and can afford to submit your application, consider filing before October 1, 2025 to avoid paying higher fees.
Use Online Filing
Take advantage of new fee discounts by submitting eligible forms online. It’s faster, often cheaper, and helps reduce paperwork errors.
Check the USCIS Fee Calculator
Use the official USCIS Fee Calculator to determine your exact filing costs, especially if you’re filing multiple forms.
Track Payment Methods
Ensure your method of payment (credit card, money order, or personal check) matches USCIS requirements. Mismatched payment info can lead to rejected applications.
FAQs
Will USCIS accept old fees after October 1, 2025?
No. Applications submitted after this date must include the new fee amount or they will be rejected.
Is there a grace period?
No formal grace period will be provided. Filing by September 30, 2025 ensures your case uses the current fee schedule.
Can I still apply for a fee waiver?
Yes. Fee waivers remain available for eligible low-income applicants. Be sure to submit Form I-912 with your application.
