Annual Asylum Fee Now in Effect: Failure to Pay Can Result in Case Rejection and Loss of Work Authorization
Summary: Payment of the Annual Asylum Fee is mandatory and delay triggers serious consequences.
As of May 29, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security implemented an Interim Final Rule under H.R. 1 that creates the Annual Asylum Fee, along with related requirements. If an asylum applicant fails to pay the fee within 30 days of notification, USCIS will reject the pending Form I-589 asylum application. A rejected asylum application also means denial of Form I-765 work authorization tied to the claim, and could trigger removal proceedings for those without status.
The rule also preserves the I-589 filing fee even if the form is improperly filed, limits Employment Authorization Documents for TPS holders to one year or the remaining TPS period, and adds a minimum $24 fee for Form I-102 filings. Beneficiaries should monitor USCIS notices closely, update mailing addresses, and pay the Annual Asylum Fee promptly to avoid loss of protection and work rights. This is a critical reminder for all who have asylum cases pending in the United States to review fee notices and act quickly.