If you are an immigrant living in the U.S. or planning to apply for certain benefits, there is something you need to know right now. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has just raised many of its fees—and some are now close to $1,000. The most concerning part? You will have to pay these new fees, even if you normally would have qualified for a fee waiver.
These changes are part of a new law passed by Congress under HR-1. Let us take a look at what is changing, who it affects, and what you should expect when applying or renewing your documents.
What are the new USCIS immigration fees in 2025?
As of July 22, several immigration-related forms now come with higher, mandatory fees. These costs are added on top of the regular application fees.
Here are some of the most important new fees:
- Asylum application (Form I-589):
Before: $0
Now: $100
- Asylum renewal (annual):
Before: Did not exist
Now: $100 per year
- Initial work permit (Form I-765):
Before: $410
Now: $960
(That is $410 base + $550 new additional fee)
- Work permit renewal:
Before: $410
Now: $685
(That is $410 base + $275 new fee)
- Temporary Protected Status (Form I-821):
Before: $135 (with biometrics)
Now: $665
(Includes $50 base + $85 biometrics + $500 additional fee)
- Parole renewal with work permit (I-131 + I-765):
Before: $390
Now: $635
- Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (Form I-360):
Before: $0
Now: $250
For some forms, there may also be an extra $30 biometrics fee added on top, depending on your situation.
Who has to pay these new fees?
These changes hit several immigrant groups, especially those applying for humanitarian programs. According to USCIS, the new fees apply to:
- People seeking asylum or renewing asylum status
- Individuals applying for or renewing a work permit
- Applicants for Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
- People under humanitarian parole programs
- Minors applying for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJ)
Even if you are low-income or meet other DHS criteria for a fee waiver, these new fees cannot be waived. That is because they were passed directly by Congress through HR-1, and are not subject to review or exemptions.
Why are the fees increasing?
This increase is part of the budget reconciliation law HR-1, recently approved by Congress. It is aimed at funding immigration programs through direct applicant payments. Officials have stated that these new fees are designed to help cover the operational costs of USCIS.
But many immigration advocates say it will put added pressure on already struggling families, especially those from Latin American, Cuban, and Venezuelan communities who rely on these programs.
What other changes are coming with HR-1?
Besides the higher fees, the law also shortens how long some work permits will be valid.
Here is what USCIS said in a statement:
“For foreign nationals who are parole beneficiaries, the initial employment authorization will be valid for a maximum of one year or the duration of their temporary residence permit (parole), whichever comes first.”
The same rule applies to those under Temporary Protected Status (TPS):
- Their initial and renewal work permits will only be valid for one year or until their TPS status ends—whichever is sooner
This means that even after paying more, you might have to renew your permit sooner than before, which adds to the total cost over time.
What can immigrants do to prepare?
If you know you will need to file one of these forms soon, it may be smart to:
- Submit your application before fees go up further
- Save in advance if you plan to apply or renew in the next year
- Speak to an immigration lawyer or accredited representative to help plan your next steps
These new rules affect thousands of immigrants, and understanding them now can help you avoid delays or costly mistakes later.
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