From being free to costing $1,000: the sharp increase in U.S. immigration paperwork.
In an unprecedented shift in U.S. immigration policy, new tariffs have been proposed that would profoundly affect those seeking asylum, work permits, TPS and other immigration benefits.
The Asilo now costs $1,000 per person.
So far, apply for asylum at USCIS has been a free process. However, the new bill pushed by Republican legislators and backed by conservative sectors seeks to impose a fixed fee of $1,000 for each asylum application submitted. This would apply both in processes affirmative (ante USCIS) as well as in processes defensive (before the cut).
Currently, filing an asylum application in the United States is free of charge. However, under the new legislative proposal, applicants would be required to pay $1,000 at the start of your transaction. In addition, a $100 annual payment while case is pendingThis recurring fee would increase the financial burden of those facing long waits that can extend for years.
Work Permit Fee: from free to $550 every six months
Applicants for asylum currently do not pay for their first work permitwhich has a longer initial term. Under the new regulations, this basic benefit would have a cost of $550 and a validity of only six monthsThis would require paying the same rate twice a year.
This measure would also apply to those who have TPS (Temporary Protected Status) o humanitarian paroleThis represents a constant burden for people who already face economic difficulties. In other words, someone with TPS should allocate $1,100 per year just to maintain their employment authorization.
The impact on unaccompanied children and their sponsors
Another worrying aspect is the new focus on the unaccompanied migrant minors. Currently, its processes are exempted from payment, but the proposal would impose a fee of $500 for SIJ visa application (for abandoned minors or minors without adequate guardianship).
In addition, the sponsors who wish to take care of these minors would be required to pay $3,500 per child released from federal custodyan amount that had never been required before.
This would make it extremely difficult to family reunification and would prolong the stay of minors in detention centers. Many of the people who often serve as sponsors - parents, grandparents or aunts and uncles - are part of the Latino community, and these new costs would represent an almost insurmountable barrier.
What options do immigrants in the USA have in the face of the increase?
In the face of this possible reform, it is essential that the immigrant community - and especially immigrants - are able to Latino migrants- take preventive measures. Although these rates are not yet in effect, it is highly advisable to initiate any pending immigration procedures before the changes become official.
If you are thinking about apply for asylumapply to the TPSask for your work permitadjust your status or initiate any other processwe recommend you not to wait. Once these fees go into effect, the cost could multiply and jeopardize your process for economic reasons.
In times of migratory uncertainty, speed and preparation make the difference. Don't let rising fees become an obstacle to your and your family's stability. Turn to trained professionals and secure your immigration future while current fees are still in effect.
Additional fees that may apply
These fees are intended not only to cover the government's administrative expenses, but also to cover reduce the number of applications and restrict access to immigration benefits.
Why this change and when could it be implemented?
According to the policy's promoters, the objective is to "restore the integrity of the migration system". y "regain control of the border". However, migrant rights organizations have warned that these tariffs could blocking access to justice and international protectionespecially for people with limited resources.
These measures could take effect as of start of the next fiscal yeari.e, September 2025The final regulation, if approved after the public comment period currently underway, is expected to be approved by the Board of Directors.
Conclusion: a challenging scenario for migrants
This fee increase marks a drastic change in the U.S. immigration system, transforming a humanitarian protection right such as asylum into a process conditioned by the applicant's economic capacity. For thousands of immigrants -most of them from Latin America- this new scenario represents a difficult barrier to overcome.
Being informed and seeking guidance from qualified professionals will be key for those who wish to initiate any immigration proceedings in the coming months. Access to justice and international protection should not be an economic privilege, but a human right.
At USA FILE SolutionsWe understand the challenges facing the immigrant community. We are here to help you protect your future and that of your family. Don't wait any longer. Contact us today for a personalized consultation and secure your peace of mind.
We are committed to helping you through every step of the immigration process. Our team of immigration experts is aware of all updates and changes in regulations and is prepared to assist you in preparing and submitting your application in an accurate and timely manner.
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