On January 9, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a final rule increasing U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) premium processing fees. USCIS is allowed, by regulation, to adjust fees every 2 years.

Premium processing is an optional service that provides faster adjudication for certain immigration benefits when Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing, is filed. According to DHS, revenue from the fee increase will be used to support premium processing operations, improve adjudication processes, address processing backlogs, and fund broader USCIS adjudication and naturalization services.

Effective March 1, 2026, premium processing fees will increase across several forms. For Form I-129 petitions, the fee for H-2B and R-1 classifications will rise from $1,685 to $1,780. For all other eligible I-129 classifications, including H-1B, L-1, O-1, and TN, the fee will increase from $2,805 to $2,965 for all applications received March 1, 2026 or after. Premium processing fees for Form I-140 employment-based immigrant petitions will also increase from $2,805 to $2,965.

In addition, the premium processing fee for eligible Form I-539 applications (F, J, and M classifications) will increase from $1,965 to $2,075. F, J, and M visas are used for students and cultural exchange visas. For certain Form I-765 employment authorization applications, including OPT and STEM OPT, the fee will rise from $1,685 to $1,780. Any Form I-907 postmarked on or after March 1, 2026, must include the new fee or it may be rejected.

If you are planning to file or upgrade to premium processing in 2026, it is important to plan ahead and ensure the correct fees are submitted. To discuss how these changes may affect your case, contact our office to schedule a consultation. Our team can help you determine timing, eligibility, and next steps to avoid delays.

‍