04 Dec USCIS Adjusts the Premium Processing Fee
Starting on December 2, 2019, USCIS has raised the Premium Processing fee to $1,440
For most petition-based visas, a Premium Processing fee can be paid on top of the petition fee to ensure the visa petition is reviewed within 15 calendar days. The fee was raised to $1,440 after an increase to $1410 in 2018. According to the USCIS, the increase, “reflects the full amount of inflation from the implementation of the premium processing fee in June 2001 through August 2019 based on the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers (CPI-U). USCIS last increased the fee in 2018.”
Premium Processing is an optional service and is not required but, in reality, we advise our clients that it is advisable to pay for Premium Processing in most cases to avoid any further delay. The USCIS has more and more been scrutinizing visa petitions and after the 15 day review period issue detailed and sometimes redundant requests for additional evidence which has the effect of delaying the visa application process further for employers who need to get key staff in the US.
Premium Processing can be used for non-immigrant work visa categories and some immigrant visa categories. If you require more information about the various US work visa available please see our page on the various US work visa category requirements. If you have further questions, you can contact us on our contact page.