U.S. Immigration Courts Face a Staggering Backlog as 3M Cases Pile Up
rubinalaw.com
February 19, 2024
Menu
Enables US citizens and LPRs to bring family to the US.
Moving for work or business, getting the right visas.
Immigration appeals contest decisions made by immigration authorities.
Comprehending the forthcoming government fee hikes for green cards, fiancé visas, and various immigration applications.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recently issued its final rule, signaling a notable increase in fees for a range of immigration applications. This marks the first significant adjustment since 2016 and is in response to the agency’s operational and financial challenges. The updated fee structure is scheduled to be implemented on April 1, 2024, meaning that applications postmarked after this date will incur the new, elevated costs.
This fee hike carries significant consequences, particularly for family-based immigration applications, which fall within the most impacted categories. This article aims to detail the revised application costs, provide insight into the timeline, and offer strategies for potential applicants to navigate and mitigate the impact of the increased fees.
UPDATED SUMMARY OF IMMIGRATION FEES
For prospective applicants, especially those contemplating family-based immigration, it is advisable to submit their applications prior to the April 1 deadline to take advantage of the existing lower fees. Ensuring accuracy and completeness in application submissions is crucial to avoid delays or rejections, particularly as the deadline approaches. Boundless can assist in ensuring your application is timely and accurate. Get started today.
USCIS stands out among federal agencies as it relies primarily on application fees, not taxes or congressional funding, for its budget. This self-sustaining model underscores the significance of periodic fee adjustments for the agency’s continued operation.
Since 2016, USCIS’s fee structure has not adequately covered its operational expenses. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the situation by causing a significant drop in immigration applications, resulting in reduced revenue. Concurrently, the agency has grappled with an increasing backlog of applications and challenges in maintaining effective customer service.
How can I calculate the new fees for my application? USCIS offers a fee calculator on its website. Applicants can input specific case details to estimate the new fees applicable post-April 2024.
Are there fee waivers available under the new structure? Yes, USCIS continues to provide fee waivers for specific forms and applicants demonstrating financial hardship. Check the USCIS website for the latest information on fee waivers.
When will these new fees come into effect? The new fees are slated to take effect on April 1, 2024.
How will this fee increase impact processing times? USCIS aims to utilize the additional revenue to address application backlogs and enhance processing times. The actual impact will hinge on factors such as application volume and staffing.
For a comprehensive list of fee changes and the latest information, it is recommended to directly visit the USCIS website. This update is crucial for anyone navigating the immigration process, emphasizing the importance of prompt action and staying well-informed.