Summary
President Trump's administration announced higher fees for fast-track processing of certain visa applications, including work and student visas. The fee increases are due to inflation, and the new costs will be effective from March 1. The changes aim to improve processing times but some criticize the system for favoring those who can afford to pay more.
Key Facts
- The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has increased fees for premium processing of several visa types.
- Fee increases apply to H-1B, L1, O-1, P visas, and student visas like the F1 and STEM-OPT.
- The increase ranges from about $50 to $100 to account for inflation.
- Premium processing speeds up applications, aiming for review within 15 to 45 business days.
- Using premium processing is optional, and applicants need to request it.
- Revenue from these increases will help improve case processing and reduce application backlogs.
- The new fees take effect on March 1, with other fee increases for asylum and work permits already in place.
