USCIS Announces Fee Increases Starting January 1, 2026

USCIS announced today that certain immigration filing fees will increase beginning January 1, 2026, as part of the agency’s new requirement to update fees each year based on inflation. This change comes from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed earlier this year, which requires USCIS to adjust certain fees annually based on a specific calculation.

You can read the announcements here:
USCIS Alert: https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom
Federal Register: https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/

This new law means many forms will become more expensive each year, and that anyone filing an application must be cautious to ensure that application filing fees are correct before sending their application.

Examples of Common Applications That Will See Fee Increases

Here are a few of the changes that will affect people:

• Form I-765 (Work Permit / Employment Authorization Document)
  Certain categories, including asylum applicants, will see higher fees
  Initial EAD for asylum applicants:

Current Fee: $550
2026 Fee: $560

• Form I-821 (Temporary Protected Status application)

Current Fee: $500
2026 Fee: $510

How the Annual Increase Will Work

Starting in 2026, USCIS will adjust fees every year based on an inflation index. These regular fee changes means that anyone filing an application with USCIS must pay close attention to the fee requirements and the particular category under which they are filing. For example, an asylum applicant filing an I-765 to renew their EAD must pay $275. This fee is not subject to annual inflation adjustments, but an EAD renewal based on parole or TPS, for example, is subject to annual inflation adjustments. Read carefully!

What We Are Advising

• File earlier when you can. Filing an application before January 1, 2026, when possible, may save you a few dollars.
• Keep an eye out for updates. Pay attention to USCIS news alerts and updates to the fee schedule. Applications submitted with incorrect fee payments will be rejected.

If you have questions on these fee changes or how it might impact your case, please reach out. We are here to help!