In a move towards modernization, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a significant policy change regarding application fee payments. Starting October 28, 2025, all applicants will be required to pay their fees using electronic methods. This immigration news for 2025 means that traditional payment forms such as paper checks and money orders will no longer be accepted. The new accepted payment methods include ACH bank account payments, credit cards, and debit cards. This policy change is part of a broader effort by USCIS to streamline its processes and improve efficiency. While this may be a convenient change for many, it is a critical visa update for all applicants to be aware of to avoid application rejection due to improper payment.
USCIS to Mandate Electronic Payments for All Applications by Late October 2025
USCIS will require all application fees to be paid electronically starting October 28, 2025, no longer accepting paper checks or money orders.
What This Means for You:
- Mandatory Electronic Payments: All USCIS applications filed on or after October 28, 2025, must be paid for electronically.
- Who Should Be Concerned: All individuals and employers submitting applications to USCIS should be prepared for this change.
- Timeline for Action: This policy takes effect on October 28, 2025.
- Next Steps: Ensure you have access to an accepted electronic payment method (ACH, credit card, or debit card) before filing your application. If you do not have a bank account or credit card, you may need to use a pre-paid card. Double-check the payment instructions on the USCIS website before submitting your application to avoid delays.
Source: Ilrc.org