Overview of Fee Changes
USCIS has announced a comprehensive fee schedule update effective April 1, 2026. The new fee structure reflects increases across most filing categories, with some fees rising by 15-50% compared to the previous schedule. These changes are part of USCIS's effort to fund its operations primarily through filing fees rather than congressional appropriations.
Below is a summary of the most relevant fee changes for employment-based and family-based immigration applicants.
Fee Comparison by Visa Category
Employment-Based Petitions
- Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers): Increased from $700 to $820 for most filers
- Form I-129 (H-1B, L-1, O-1 petitions): Base fee increased from $460 to $780
- H-1B Registration Fee: Increased from $215 to $315 per registration
- Asylum Program Fee (H-1B and L-1 only): New $600 fee added to certain H-1B and L-1 petitions
- Form I-907 (Premium Processing): Varies by form type — I-140 premium processing is now $2,805; I-129 premium processing is $2,805
Adjustment of Status
- Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status): Increased from $1,140 to $1,440
- Form I-765 (Employment Authorization): Will be filed at no additional cost when filed concurrently with I-485 under the new fee rule
- Form I-131 (Advance Parole): Similarly included at no additional cost when filed with I-485
The bundling of I-765 and I-131 with I-485 is a positive change — previously, each form required a separate fee. For applicants filing adjustment of status, this may offset some of the overall increase.
