972-200-7254 contact@pristerlaw.com
← Back to Immigration Blog

USCIS Announces Fee Increases for 2026: File Before December 31 to Save

TPS Policy Change USCIS EAD Fees Published: December 1, 2025
USCIS will implement fee increases for several key immigration forms starting January 1, 2026, citing inflation as the reason for the adjustments.

# USCIS Announces Fee Increases for 2026: File Before December 31 to Save

The Department of Homeland Security has announced that several USCIS application fees will increase effective January 1, 2026. The fee adjustments, which the agency attributes to inflation between July 2024 and July 2025, will affect several key immigration forms, including applications for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) and Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

While the individual fee hikes are relatively small—ranging from $5 to $10 per form—they represent an additional financial consideration for applicants, many of whom are already facing significant costs. For example, the fee for an initial EAD for asylum applicants, parole recipients, or TPS beneficiaries will increase from $550 to $560. The fee for renewing an EAD under TPS or parole will increase from $275 to $280.

It is important for anyone planning to file these forms in the near future to be aware of these changes. Applications postmarked on or after January 1, 2026, must include the new, higher fee to be accepted by USCIS. This is a key update for those following immigration news 2025 and visa updates.

Source: [Ahluwalia Law Offices](https://www.ahluwalialaw.com/uscis-fy-2026-fee-increase/)

What This Means for You:

  • Key Point 1: Filing fees for several common immigration applications, including EADs and TPS applications, are increasing by approximately 2% in the new year.
  • Who Should Be Concerned: Anyone planning to file for or renew an EAD, TPS, or other affected applications in early 2026, particularly asylum seekers, TPS beneficiaries, and parolees.
  • Timeline for Action: To avoid the higher fees, applications must be postmarked by December 31, 2025. USCIS uses the postmark date to determine which fee applies.
  • Next Steps: If you are eligible to file or renew an application before the end of the year, consider doing so to take advantage of the current, lower fees. Consult with an immigration attorney to confirm your eligibility, ensure your application is filed correctly, and avoid any delays that could result in your application being subject to the higher fees.
Source: Ahluwalialaw.com
← Back to Immigration Blog