On May 4, 2016, USCIS published a proposal to increase filing fees across the board to recoup the cost of processing immigration applications. UCIS filing fee amounts are reviewed every other year. USCIS last adjusted its fees in November 2010. The filing fees for the fiscal year 2017 are slated to increase an average of 21%. Below is a chart summarizing a portion of the suggested changes.

More information about the proposed increased filing fees is available here. We anticipate that the fee increase will be effective later this year, at the beginning of the new USCIS fiscal year, which is October 1. The proposal is open to public comment, and will close for deliberation on 7/05/2016. Instructions on how to submit comments are available in the proposed rule at the very top. We encourage those who are interested to submit their thoughts and feedback.

Take action now! If you anticipate filing for any immigration benefit in the foreseeable future, you may want to consider filing now if possible to avoid the higher filing fees. This includes but is not limited to family-based filings, H-1B extensions/transfers, citizenship applications, etc.

Do you need assistance with a family-based or employment-based immigration matter? Please contact our office to learn how we can help. Call us at 804-396-3412 or email at info@sumnerimmigration.com. We look forward to hearing from you!