The USCIS fee increase story in 2026 has two chapters. The first was the sweeping April 2024 rule that raised most immigration filing fees significantly and added new fee categories. The second was the One Big Beautiful Bill Act signed in 2026, which layered on a new $250 Visa Integrity Fee for nonimmigrant visa applicants. Together, these changes made 2026 one of the most expensive years on record to navigate the US immigration system.
Calculate Your 2026 Immigration Fee
Open USCIS Fee Calculator →Wave 1 — April 2024 Fee Rule Changes (Still in Effect)
| Form | Old Fee | 2024/2026 Fee |
|---|---|---|
| I-485 (adult) | $1,440 (with $85 biometrics) | $1,440 (biometrics bundled) |
| I-765 Initial EAD | $410 | $820 (+$410) |
| I-765 Renewal EAD | $410 | $540 (+$130) |
| N-400 Online | $640 | $710 (+$70) |
| N-400 Paper | $725 | $760 (+$35) |
| I-140 (standard employer) | $700 | $1,315 (+$615 Asylum Fee) |
Note: Biometric services ($85) are now included in the base fee for most forms. The net increase is lower than it appears for forms that previously charged biometrics separately.
Wave 2 — One Big Beautiful Bill Act 2026
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed in 2026, introduced additional fees for nonimmigrant visa applicants. These fees are charged at US consulates abroad and are separate from USCIS filing fees.
| Fee | Who Pays | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Integrity Fee (VIF) | Most nonimmigrant visa applicants | $250/person |
The VIF applies in addition to the standard DS-160 MRV fee ($185 for most visas). For an H1B worker transferring or extending status, this fee may be charged at consular interviews. Always verify the latest requirements at travel.state.gov for your specific visa category.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When did USCIS fees go up?
The last major fee increase took effect April 1, 2024. The new Visa Integrity Fee ($250 for nonimmigrant visa applicants) was added in 2026 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
Will USCIS fees go up again?
USCIS periodically reviews its fee schedule. There is no publicly announced fee increase scheduled for late 2026, but it is prudent to check USCIS.gov before filing if you have delayed your application.
Is the Visa Integrity Fee refundable?
No. Like other USCIS and consular fees, the Visa Integrity Fee is non-refundable even if your visa application is denied.
Do fee waivers apply to the VIF?
The fee waiver structure for the new Visa Integrity Fee has not been fully clarified. Check current USCIS and State Department guidance. Traditional fee waivers (Form I-912) apply to USCIS forms, not consular fees.