News Alert: Significant Increases to Immigration Fees Expected
News Alert: Significant Increases to Immigration Fees Expected
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is gearing up to introduce notable adjustments to its fee structure, according to recent updates from the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). The Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) finalized its review of the USCIS Final Fee Rule on January 19, 2024, marking a crucial step in this process.
What's Changing?
The proposed changes entail substantial increases in immigration fees. If implemented, applicants and employers may face heightened costs. The proposed rule, initially issued on January 4, 2023, suggests an average increase of 40% in application fees. For instance, fees for marriage-based green card applications could more than double from $1,760, reaching over $3,640. Additionally, fees for accompanying children will no longer be discounted, potentially adding significant expenses for families. Other applications, such as fiancé visa petitions and relative petitions, are also slated for notable price hikes.
When Will Changes Take Effect?
With OIRA's review concluded, the final rule's publication is imminent. The new fees could come into effect as early as spring 2024. However, applications postmarked before the implementation date will not be subject to the increased fees.
Stay Updated:
The situation surrounding these fee changes is evolving rapidly. If you have been contemplating the filing of a particular application, now might be a good time to consult with our office. To stay informed about the latest developments, consider subscribing to our news alert at https://www.decastrofoden.com/news
Written by: Attorney Edwin Colon, Jan 26th, 2024
Juris Doctor, University of Connecticut. Admitted to the bars of Connecticut and New York, and the U.S. District Court of Connecticut.