As of, April 1, 2024, significant changes have taken place in the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee structure. Here’s a breakdown of the key points affecting employer-based petitions:
Premium Processing Service:
Effective since February 26, 2024, the premium processing service, allowing expedited adjudication of certain applications, has undergone adjustments. The processing timeframe has been extended from 15 calendar days to 15 business days, accompanied by a fee increase to $2,805 for I-129 and I-140 forms.
Filing Fee Increases:
Filing fees for various petitions have been adjusted for the first time since 2016. Notable increases include the I-129 Petition for H-1B to $780, and the I-129 Petition for L Nonimmigrant Workers, increasing to $1,385.
New Asylum Program Fee:
Started, April 1, 2024, USCIS has introduced a new Asylum Program Fee, set along to fee changes. This fee is a one-time fee and is applicable to all Form I-129 and I-140 petitions, aimed at covering the costs associated with asylum adjudications. Notably, nonprofit organizations will be exempt from this fee. The Asylum Program Fee is as follows:
- $600 for employers with 26 or more Full-Time Employees
- $300 for small employers (25 Full-Time Employees or less)
- $0 for nonprofit organizations
This article, under no circumstances, acts as legal advice; therefore, for any immigration questions, please contact your Attorney or the Ahluwalia Law Offices, P.C. (Team ALO).
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