Thinking about filing an immigration case? A new USCIS payment system will affect how you pay for your immigration applications and petitions. Here’s a detailed guide on what’s changing, how it impacts immigrant families, and what you can do to prepare.

Key USCIS Payment Update for 2025

In August 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a major change in how immigration filing fees are accepted.

👉 Effective October 28, 2025, USCIS will no longer accept checks or money orders for immigration fees.

Instead, applicants must use one of the following two payment methods:

• Direct debit (ACH) using Form G-1650 – Payment directly from a U.S. bank account.
• Credit or debit card using Form G-1450 – Including prepaid cards.

This update aims to speed up processing and improve security.

Why Did USCIS Change the Payment System?

USCIS explained that the new electronic payment system will:

• Reduce fraud and lost payments.
• Eliminate mail delays.
• Improve security for applicants.

Currently, over 90% of immigration fees are paid by check or money order, which slows down case processing. With ACH debit (Form G-1650) or card payments (Form G-1450), transactions are processed instantly.

Do All Immigration Applications Have Fees?

No. Some immigration benefits remain fee-exempt. Examples include:

• VAWA (I-360 self-petitions): No filing fee.
• T Visa (I-914): $0 for the main application and supplements.
• U Visa (I-918): $0 for the main application and supplements.

Always check whether your case qualifies for a fee waiver or free filing.

What If You Don’t Have a U.S. Bank Account?

To use Form G-1650 (ACH direct debit), you must have a U.S. bank account with enough funds.

If you don’t, you can still pay using:

• A credit or debit card (including prepaid cards).
• Form G-1450, which authorizes USCIS to charge your card.

After October 28, 2025, checks and money orders will no longer be accepted, so make sure you plan ahead.

Risks If Your USCIS Payment Fails

If your payment is declined, USCIS may reject or deny your application. Common reasons include:

• Insufficient funds in your account.
• Errors in account or authorization numbers.
• Credit or debit card declined.

This could cause your application to be returned, forcing you to resubmit and lose valuable time.

What This Change Means for Immigrants

The new USCIS system can benefit applicants by making payments faster and more secure. However, it may also pose challenges for families without easy access to U.S. bank accounts.

To avoid issues:

• ✅ Check if your case requires a fee.
• ✅ Ensure your account or card has sufficient funds.
• ✅ Keep a copy of payment forms G-1650 or G-1450 for your records.

Get Help With Your Immigration Case

At Eagan Immigration, our attorneys guide clients through every step of the immigration process, including the new USCIS payment rules. We ensure your application is filed correctly, on time, and with the right payment method.

📞 Call us today at 202-709-6439 to schedule your free case evaluation.