On January 1, 2026: USCIS Fee Increases Took Effect for Certain Immigration Applications

On January 1, 2026, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) implemented inflation-based fee increases for certain immigration applications. These changes were announced in a Federal Register notice on November 20, 2025, and are required under H.R. 1. While the increases are relatively modest, they may still affect individuals and families who are planning to file immigration applications in the coming year.

If you are preparing to file an application or renewal with USCIS, now is the time to review these changes carefully.

Why Are USCIS Fees Increasing?

Under H.R. 1, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is required to adjust certain immigration-related fees annually to account for inflation. The FY 2026 increases reflect inflation from July 2024 through July 2025 and will continue to be adjusted each fiscal year moving forward.

Any application postmarked on or after January 1, 2026, that requires one of the affected fees must include the new amount, or it may be rejected by USCIS.

Immigration Fees That Are Increasing in 2026

The following fees will increase slightly beginning January 1, 2026:

Asylum- and Work Authorization–Related Fees

• Annual asylum application fee (currently stayed by court order): $100 → $102

• Form I-765 (Initial Asylum Applicant EAD): $550 → $560.

• Form I-765 (Initial Parole EAD): $550 → $560.

• Form I-765 (Renewal or Extension of Parole EAD): $275 → $280.

• Form I-765 (Initial TPS EAD): $550 → $560.

• Form I-765 (Renewal or Extension of TPS EAD): $275 → $280.

• Form I-131, Part 9 (EAD requested with re-parole): $275 → $280.

Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

• Form I-821, Application for TPS: $500 → $510.

While each increase may seem small, filing multiple applications or renewals can add up—especially for families.

Fees That Are NOT Increasing at This Time

Some important immigration-related fees will remain the same as of January 1, 2026, including:

• Form I-589 (Initial asylum filing fee): $100 (no change).

• Form I-765 (Renewal or Extension of Asylum Applicant EAD): $275 (no change).

• Form I-360 (Special Immigrant Juvenile): $250 (no change).

DHS has indicated that additional inflation adjustments—such as for parole-related fees—may be announced in future Federal Register notices.

What This Means for Immigrants and Families

USCIS is strict about filing fees. Submitting the wrong amount, even by a few dollars, can result in:

• Application rejection.

• Filing delays.

• Missed deadlines.

• Employment authorization interruptions.

This is especially important for individuals filing EAD renewals, TPS applications, or parole-related requests, where timing is critical.

How to Protect Your Case

To avoid unnecessary delays:

• Confirm the correct filing fee before submitting your application.

• File early when possible, especially for work permit renewals.

• Ensure all forms, fees, and supporting documents are accurate and complete.

How Our Immigration Law Firm Can Help

Our firm closely monitors USCIS policy updates and fee changes so we can protect our clients’ rights and guide them through an increasingly complex immigration system. We assist clients with:

• Confirming correct USCIS filing fees.

• Preparing timely and accurate applications.

• Avoiding rejections due to fee or filing errors.

• Planning ahead for renewals and future filings.

If you are unsure which fees apply to your case or want to help prepare your application before the January 1, 2026, deadline, we are here to help. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and receive trusted immigration guidance tailored to your situation.