Filing US immigration forms? Here’s what you need to know in August 2025
New USCIS fee rules apply to asylum, work permits, TPS and more
DUBAI – Starting this week, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will reject any immigration form that does not include the correct filing and additional fees.
This comes after the implementation of new charges outlined in the H.R. 1 Reconciliation Bill, which introduces some of the most significant changes to US immigration fees in recent years.
Travellers and applicants must be aware of the key dates, the updated fee schedule, and the rules around payments, as applications without the correct amount will not be processed. Even forms that qualify for fee waivers must include certain mandatory additional payments that cannot be waived.
What’s new?
On 18th July 2025, USCIS announced the revised fee structure under the H.R. 1 Reconciliation Bill. These changes apply to many categories of immigration forms, including asylum requests, work permits, temporary protection status, and juvenile applications.
The deadline of 21st August 2025 is critical. Any application postmarked on or after this date must include the new fees without exception. If the wrong amount is submitted, the form will be returned. USCIS has made clear that there will be no leniency on this requirement.
Applicants who filed their forms earlier are subject to the rule if the postmark date falls after 22nd July 2025. This leaves a narrow compliance window for those who sent applications in late July.
How are fees changing?
A new official fee schedule (Form G-1055) was published on 31st July 2025, detailing changes across different applications. Some of the most important updates include:
- Asylum Application (Form I-589): Previously free, now subject to a yearly fee of $100 for every calendar year the application remains pending. USCIS will send annual payment reminders.
- Work Permit / Employment Authorisation Document (Form I-765): First-time applications now cost $550. Renewals or extensions cost $275. For those applying after approval of extended parole (Form I-131), the fee is $275.
- Temporary Protected Status (Form I-821): The registration fee has risen sharply from $50 to $500, excluding related costs such as work permit fees.
- Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (Form I-360): Previously free, this application now costs $250.
In addition, a biometric fee has been introduced for certain forms, and some categories under the Family Reunification Task Force (FRTF) programme require new payments.
Do waivers apply?
Applicants may still request a waiver for some filing fees by submitting Form I-912. However, not all charges can be waived. Importantly:
- Additional fees introduced under H.R. 1 cannot be waived.
- These must be paid separately at the time of application.
- Even if a filing fee is waived, the extra charges must still be paid.
Some waiver requests cannot be submitted online and must instead be filed by post. USCIS advises applicants to review the latest instructions carefully to avoid rejection.
Where to find details?
The Federal Register Notice (FRN), published on 18th July 2025, provides official guidance on the changes. It confirms that:
- USCIS will retain a portion of collected fees in the Immigration Examinations Fee Account (IEFA).
- Other portions of revenue will be directed to the US Treasury general fund.
- DHS is required to adjust fees annually based on inflation.
Applicants are strongly advised to consult the latest Fee Schedule (Form G-1055) and payment guidelines to ensure accuracy. Any mistake in the amount paid will result in rejection.