25 February 2026
Several weeks ago, USCIS announced an upcoming increase in Premium Processing fees. As the effective date approaches, this serves as an important reminder for employers, foreign professionals, students, and individuals planning immigration filings.
Beginning March 1, 2026, new Premium Processing fees will apply to Form I-907 requests. Petitions postmarked on or after this date must include the updated fee amount or risk rejection.
For time-sensitive immigration matters, proper planning is essential.
What Happens on March 1, 2026?
USCIS will implement higher Premium Processing fees across several commonly used immigration forms, including:
Updated Fees
Form I-129 (H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN, E-3 and most classifications):
$2,965
Form I-129 (H-2B or R-1):
$1,780
Form I-140 (Employment-Based Green Card Petition):
$2,965
Form I-539 (Certain Change/Extension of Status Applications):
$2,075
Form I-765 (Including Certain OPT/STEM OPT Categories):
$1,780
Premium Processing requests submitted with outdated fees may be rejected, which can cause significant delays in employment authorization or case adjudication.
Why This Reminder Matters
As immigration attorneys in New Jersey, we are currently advising clients to carefully review upcoming filings. Even a minor fee miscalculation can result in:
- Rejection of the entire petition package
- Delays in start dates for sponsored employees
- Gaps in work authorization
- Increased overall legal and government costs
For businesses sponsoring H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN, or E-3 professionals, timing is especially critical. The same applies to individuals filing I-140 immigrant petitions or students applying for OPT or STEM OPT extensions.
Should You File Before March 1?
Every case is different. In some situations, filing before the effective date may be strategically beneficial. In others, timing may not materially impact the overall immigration process.
Key considerations include:
- Upcoming employment start dates
- RFE response deadlines
- Status expiration timelines
- Corporate workforce planning
- Budget forecasting for immigration costs
Premium Processing can be a valuable strategic tool — but only when used appropriately within your broader immigration plan.
At VKM Law Group, we assist employers, entrepreneurs, investors, students, and professionals nationwide with employment-based immigration matters. As trusted immigration attorneys in New Jersey, our focus is on proactive strategy, compliance, and minimizing risk.
If you are planning to request Premium Processing or have an upcoming immigration filing, we recommend reviewing your case before the March 1, 2026 fee increase takes effect.
Proper preparation today can help prevent delays tomorrow.
To schedule a consultation, contact VKM Law Group.