15 January 2026
Businesses across New Jersey especially in technology, healthcare, and manufacturing rely heavily on U.S. immigration programs to hire and retain global talent. In January 2026, USCIS officially announced an increase in premium processing fees, effective March 1, 2026, impacting employers and individuals who depend on fast immigration decisions .
For companies facing tight hiring timelines, understanding these changes and planning accordingly has never been more important. This is where working with an experienced Immigration Attorney in New Jersey can make a measurable difference.
What Is Premium Processing?
Premium processing is an optional USCIS service that guarantees expedited adjudication of certain immigration petitions. By filing Form I-907, employers and individuals can receive a decision (approval, denial, or request for evidence) within a specific timeframe, depending on the petition type.
For many New Jersey employers, premium processing is not a luxury, it is a business necessity.
Why Premium Processing Matters
- Faster onboarding of international talent
- Reduced uncertainty for HR and compliance teams
- Predictable hiring timelines
- Competitive advantage in talent acquisition
USCIS Premium Processing Fee Increase: Effective March 1, 2026
USCIS confirmed that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is increasing premium processing fees to account for inflation between June 2023 and June 2025. This adjustment is authorized under the USCIS Stabilization Act and will occur every two years going forward .
Key Takeaway
Any premium processing request postmarked on or after March 1, 2026 must include the new fee amount even if the underlying petition was filed earlier.
Updated Premium Processing Fee Table (2026)
| USCIS Form | Visa Type / Category | Old Fee | New Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form I-129 | H-2B, R-1 | $1,685 | $1,780 |
| Form I-129 | H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN, E visas & others | $2,805 | $2,965 |
| Form I-140 | Employment-Based Green Cards | $2,805 | $2,965 |
| Form I-539 | F, J, M extensions/changes | $1,965 | $2,075 |
| Form I-765 | OPT / STEM OPT | $1,685 | $1,780 |
How This Affects New Jersey Employers
1. Tech Companies Hiring Global Talent
For CTOs and tech executives in Newark, Jersey City, and Hoboken, premium processing is often used for:
- H-1B software engineers
- L-1 intracompany transferees
- O-1 extraordinary ability professionals
A delayed hire can cost far more than the increased fee. However, improper filings or missed deadlines can cause expensive setbacks.
Immigration Attorney Insight: Strategic filing timing before March 1, 2026 may help reduce costs.
2. Healthcare Institutions Recruiting International Doctors
Hospitals and clinics depend on:
- H-1B visas for physicians
- J-1 waivers
- Employment-based green cards
Premium processing often ensures continuity of patient care. With rising fees, healthcare employers must plan budgets carefully and avoid rejections caused by documentation errors.
3. Manufacturing & Operations Managers
Manufacturing companies across Edison and central New Jersey frequently use:
- L-1 visas
- H-2B visas
- Employment-based green cards
Delays can disrupt production schedules and supply chains. The fee increase makes it even more critical to work with a Visa Attorney in USA who understands industry-specific compliance issues.
Why USCIS Is Increasing Fees
USCIS has stated that revenue from premium processing increases will be used to:
- Improve adjudication efficiency
- Address case backlogs
- Modernize internal processing systems
- Fund immigration and naturalization services
Strategic Planning Tips Before March 1, 2026
✔ File Early When Possible
If your company anticipates filing H-1B, L-1, or I-140 petitions, submitting before March 1, 2026 may help avoid higher costs.
✔ Budget for Long-Term Immigration
Employers should factor recurring premium processing increases into workforce planning.
✔ Avoid Costly RFEs
A Request for Evidence (RFE) can delay cases even with premium processing. Working with an experienced US Attorney helps ensure filings are complete and accurate the first time.
Why Work With an Immigration Attorney in New Jersey?
Immigration law is constantly evolving. Fee increases, regulatory updates, and processing delays can significantly impact businesses and professionals.
An experienced Immigration Attorney in New Jersey can:
- Identify the right visa category
- Time filings strategically
- Reduce delays and RFEs
- Ensure compliance with federal regulations
- Support long-term immigration planning
For employers, this means smoother hiring. For professionals, it means peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 USCIS premium processing fee increase is more than a simple cost adjustment, it’s a reminder that immigration strategy is business strategy.
Whether you are:
- A tech executive securing H-1B talent
- A healthcare leader onboarding international physicians
- A manufacturing manager expanding operations
Working with a trusted Immigration Attorney in New Jersey ensures your hiring goals stay on track despite changing regulations and rising fees.