USCIS will raise premium processing fees by 5–6% beginning on March 1, 2026
In order to account for inflation. OPT remains at $1,780, but H-1B petitions increase from $2,805 to $2,965. Before filing, tourists should be aware of the following.
There is a possibility you should prepare for if you employ premium processing to expedite decisions about a work permit or U.S. visa. The USCIS premium processing fees will be up on March 1, 2026, according to confirmation from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The explanation is rather straightforward. inflation.
Let's simplify the impending modifications to the premium processing cost.
The Reasons Behind USCIS's Increase in Premium Processing Fees
Every two years, USCIS is legally permitted to modify premium processing fees. The objective is to maintain the service's actual value while keeping up with inflation.
DHS states that the additional funds will be utilized for:
Maintain the smooth operation of premium processing
Enhance the application evaluation process
Handle backlogs and severe workloads.
Encourage consistent naturalization and immigration services
To put it briefly, USCIS claims that the increase allows them to process immigration applications faster and more effectively.
When the New Charges Take Effect
On March 1, 2026, the new fees will go into force. USCIS will only accept the updated fee if your premium processing request is postmarked on or after this date. Older quantities won't be sufficient.
Applicants must still submit Form I-907 and carefully follow the guidelines in order to obtain premium processing.
New Fees for USCIS Premium Processing
This is a summary of the changes to the Premium Processing Fees. The majority of rises are between five and six percent, but if you're in a hurry to get a visa, they can mount up.
Nonimmigrant Worker Petitions, Form I-129
R-1 and H-2B visas
Previous cost: $1,685
$1,780 is the new cost.
Every other I-129 category, such as TN, E, L-1, O-1, H-1B, and others
Previous cost: $2,805
$2,965 is the new cost.
Employment-Based Green Card Petitions, Form I-140
pertains to EB-1, EB-2 (including NIW), EB-3, and similar classifications.
Previous cost: $2,805
$2,965 is the new cost.
Form I-539 (Status Extension or Change)
For individuals with F, J, and M visas and their dependents.
Previous cost: $1,965
$2,075 is the new cost.
For qualified OPT and STEM OPT candidates, fill out Form I-765 (Work Permit Applications).
Previous cost: $1,685
$1,780 is the new cost.
A Quick Look at New Fees
Form Old Fee New Fee
I-129 (H-2B or R-1) $1,685$1,780
I-129 (Most others: E, H-1B, L, O, P, Q, TN) $2,805 $2,965
I-140 (petitions for employment-based immigration)$2,805 $2,965
I-539 (F, J, M Modifications/Extensions) $1,965$2,075
I-765 (OPT/STEM-OPT work auth) $1,685 $1,780
One Crucial Reminder
Not all visas and benefits are eligible for premium processing. Only after USCIS has formally declared premium processing for that category can you use it. Make sure your benefit is eligible before paying the charge.
What This Means for Foreign Workers and Travelers
Premium processing still provides quicker decisions if timing is important to you. However, the price will go up starting in March 2026.
It is more important than ever to plan ahead. Make sure you utilize the exact fee amount if you are filing around the deadline. A minor error could cause things to move more slowly rather than more quickly.
For many candidates, the peace of mind may still outweigh the additional expense.
