USCIS will implement an increase in premium processing fees effective March 1, 2026, marking the first adjustment since 2024. This change affects all employment-based immigration categories, including H-1B and L-1 visas, among others.
Key Details:
- New fee for Form I-129 (H-1B, L-1, E-1/E-2): $2,965 (up from $2,805)
- H-2B & R-1 Filings fee rises to $1,780 (previously $1,685)
- Form I-539 (F-1, J-1 Status Changes) fee increases to $2,075 (up from $1,965)
- Form I-765 (Employment Authorization) fee now $1,780 (previously $1,685)
- EB-1C Multinational Manager Petitions will have a fee of $2,965 for a 45-day review
The fee increase coincides with the FY 2027 H-1B cap registration window opening on March 4, 2026. Employers will need to manage three separate fee structures: a $215 registration fee, regular petition filing fees, and the new premium processing surcharge. All requests for premium processing postmarked on or after March 1, 2026, must include the updated fees or risk rejection. This adjustment is mandated by the 2020 Emergency Stopgap USCIS Stabilization Act to support technology upgrades and staffing enhancements.
The increase will significantly impact corporate mobility programs managing high volumes of H-1B or L-1 cases, necessitating immediate budget adjustments and strategic planning.
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