USCIS Revises Policy Manual to Align with New Fee Rule

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced revisions to its Policy Manual to align with the new fee rule, which went into effect on October 2, 2020. These updates provide clarity and guidance to stakeholders regarding the application of fees for various immigration benefits and services. Let's delve into the key changes and their implications for applicants and petitioners.

Background:

In August 2020, USCIS published a final rule that adjusted fees for certain immigration and naturalization benefits. The new fee schedule aimed to ensure full cost recovery and enhance USCIS's ability to provide adequate services to applicants and petitioners. As part of the fee rule implementation, USCIS also revised its Policy Manual to reflect the updated fee structure and related policies.

Key Changes:

1. Fee Waiver Eligibility Criteria: The revised Policy Manual clarifies the eligibility criteria for fee waivers, including the documentation required to support a request for a fee waiver. It provides detailed guidance on determining an applicant's ability to pay and outlines the circumstances under which a fee waiver may be granted.

2. Premium Processing Service: The updated manual provides information on the premium processing service, including eligibility requirements, processing times, and procedures for requesting premium processing for certain immigration benefit requests. It also outlines the additional fees associated with premium processing and the benefits of expedited processing.

3. Fee Payment Methods: USCIS has updated its Policy Manual to include guidance on acceptable forms of payment for immigration fees, including online payment options, checks, money orders, and credit cards. The manual provides instructions for completing the payment process and submitting fees along with the application or petition.

4. Fee Refund Policy: The revised manual includes information on USCIS's fee refund policy, outlining the circumstances under which applicants may be eligible for a refund of fees paid for immigration benefits. It provides guidance on how to request a refund and the procedures for processing refund requests.

Implications for Stakeholders:

The revisions to the USCIS Policy Manual provide clarity and transparency regarding the application of fees for immigration benefits and services. Applicants and petitioners can use the updated manual as a resource to understand their fee obligations, eligibility for fee waivers, and options for premium processing. By aligning with the new fee rule, USCIS aims to streamline the fee payment process and enhance the efficiency of its adjudication procedures.