The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is increasing the fees for premium processing, the “fast-track” service, and reducing the timeframe for adjudication. By law, they are allowed to adjust these prices every two years to keep up with inflation. These adjustments are tied to the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) to ensure the “real dollar value” of the service is maintained.
The fee updates were announced on January 9th, 2026, by USCIS, with a 5% increase announced across the various categories. When you file Form I-907, USCIS guarantees a response within a specific timeframe (usually 15, 30, or 45 business days, depending on the form). However, it is important to note that a “response” doesn’t always mean an approval; it can also mean a denial, a request for evidence, or notice of intent to deny.
The New Premium Processing Fees (Effective March 1, 2026)
Form I-129 (Petitions for Nonimmigrant Workers)
This is the most common form of work visas, and includes a jump from $2,805 to $2,965 for these categories:
- E-1
- E-2
- E-3
- H-1B
- H-3
- L-1A
- L-1B
- LZ
- O-1
- O-2
- P-1
- P-1S
- P-2
- P-2S
- P-3
- P-3S
- Q-1
- TN-1
- TN-2
and an increase from $1,685 to $1,780 for:
- H-2B or R-1
Form I-140 (Immigrant Petitions for Workers)
The I-140 form is typically used for employment-based Green Cards. The fee is increasing from $2,805 to $2,965
Common categories include:
-
EB-1
-
EB-2
-
EB-3
Form I-539 (Applications to Change or Extend Status)
This is used by students and visitors already in the U.S. The cost to speed up these applications will rise from $1,965 to $2,075.
Common categories include:
- F-1
- F-2
- M-1
- M-2
- J-1
- J-2
To manage these upcoming changes, it is essential to factor these higher fees into your immediate financial planning. The most effective way to save money is to submit your filings as early as possible, as any request postmarked before March 1, 2026, will still be processed at the current, lower rate.