The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a significant update to its payment policies, making electronic fee payments mandatory for specific forms. Effective July 31, 2024, applicants filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, and Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization (when filed concurrently with Form I-485), will be required to submit their application fees electronically.
This change aims to modernize the application process and enhance efficiency for both applicants and USCIS.
To comply with the new mandate, individuals must submit Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, along with their paper applications. USCIS will then utilize the information provided on Form G-1450 to process the payment through Pay.gov, accepting debit cards, credit cards, or linked bank accounts.
This streamlined approach replaces traditional payment methods like paper checks or money orders for these specific forms.
The shift to mandatory electronic payments is part of USCIS’s broader strategy to improve the security, accuracy, and speed of processing immigration benefits. By reducing the handling of physical checks and money orders, the agency expects to:
This initiative aligns with the ongoing digital transformation of government services, offering applicants a more convenient and secure payment experience.
Applicants preparing to file Form I-485, or Form I-765 alongside an I-485, on or after July 31, 2024, must ensure they are ready to comply with this new requirement. Submissions without Form G-1450 for electronic processing of fees will be rejected.
For all other forms, applicants may continue using current payment methods, including checks, money orders, or Form G-1450 for optional electronic processing, where applicable.
USCIS encourages all prospective applicants and legal representatives to review official guidance and prepare for this update. Staying informed about these changes will help ensure a smooth and compliant application experience.
For more details on payment options and the Form G-1450 submission process, applicants should visit the official USCIS website.
