Update: USCIS premium processing fees are going up again. A DHS final rule adjusts Form I-907 (Premium Processing) fees for inflation, and the new fees apply to requests postmarked on or after March 1, 2026.
Key takeaway: If you file premium processing (Form I-907) on/after March 1, 2026, you must pay the new premium fee for your specific form category — or your request may be rejected for an incorrect fee.
Official reference: USCIS Alert – USCIS to Increase Premium Processing Fees
What’s changing on March 1, 2026?
Premium processing is an optional, paid service requested using Form I-907. USCIS is increasing premium processing fees to reflect inflation (June 2023 → June 2025). These adjustments are designed to preserve the real-dollar value of premium processing and support USCIS operations, including adjudication improvements and backlog-related demands.
New premium processing fees (Form I-907)
Here’s the updated fee table you should budget for starting March 1, 2026:
| Benefit Type | Previous Fee | New Fee (Effective Mar 1, 2026) | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form I-129 — H-2B or R-1 | $1,685 | $1,780 | +$95 |
| Form I-129 — Most other classifications (including H-1B, L-1, O, P, TN, E) | $2,805 | $2,965 | +$160 |
| Form I-140 — Employment-based classifications (including EB-1, EB-2/NIW, EB-3) | $2,805 | $2,965 | +$160 |
| Form I-539 — Change/extend status for F, J, M (F-1/F-2/J-1/J-2/M-1/M-2) | $1,965 | $2,075 | +$110 |
| Form I-765 — Certain eligible EAD filings (OPT & STEM OPT) | $1,685 | $1,780 | +$95 |
Reminder: Premium processing is only available for benefits where USCIS has officially announced eligibility. Always confirm availability and the latest instructions before filing.
Helpful USCIS links: Form I-907 (Premium Processing) | How to Request Premium Processing
Who is most impacted?
- Employers and HR teams filing premium processing for H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN, and other I-129 categories (most jump to $2,965).
- Employment-based green card applicants using premium processing for I-140 (now $2,965).
- International students using premium processing for:
- I-539 change/extend status (F/J/M) → $2,075
- I-765 OPT/STEM OPT EAD premium processing → $1,780
What you should do now (practical checklist)
- Check your mailing date: USCIS applies the new fees based on postmark (or courier receipt date). Anything on/after March 1, 2026 needs the new fee.
- Update your budgets and reimbursement policies: Employers paying for premium processing should update internal cost estimates for Q1/Q2 2026 filings.
- Double-check the exact fee category: I-129 has different premium fees depending on the classification (H-2B/R-1 vs most others).
- Use USCIS fee resources: Always confirm the correct fee at the time you file to avoid a rejection.
FAQ (quick answers)
Does this increase apply to normal filing fees too?
No. This update is specifically about premium processing (Form I-907) fees. Regular filing fees can change separately under different rules and schedules.
Can I still pay the old premium fee if I start preparing before March 1?
Preparation doesn’t matter — the postmark/courier receipt date controls which fee applies. If it’s postmarked on/after March 1, 2026, you must include the new fee.
Is premium processing available for every case type?
No. USCIS only allows premium processing for benefits it has officially designated as eligible. Always confirm eligibility before filing Form I-907.
Not legal advice: This article is for general information only. If your case is time-sensitive (work authorization gaps, start dates, travel plans), consider speaking with a qualified immigration attorney.
Extra reference (rule publication context): Federal Register Public Inspection PDF (Advance Copy)
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