USCIS modifies immigration processing fees and eliminates a key form of payment.

paola vanessa romero rondon
Oct 14
3 min read

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a major change in the way immigration processing fees such as green card, citizenship or visas are paid. This new rule, which is already in effect, seeks to make payments more secure, faster and reduce the risk of fraud.

This is not a change to panic about, on the contrary, it is a modernization to improve processes. Here we explain in a simple way what the new payment methods are, which method will be eliminated and what you should do so that your application does not have any problems.

New forms of payment

As of August 29, 2025, USCIS has implemented a new primary payment method and strengthened an existing one. The goal is that your money arrives safely and your case is not delayed due to problems with a lost or stolen check.

1. Direct Debit (From a U.S. bank account)

This is the big new feature. You can now authorize USCIS to withdraw the fee money directly from your bank account. It is a very safe and efficient method.

How do I use it? You must complete and sign Form G-1650, Authorization for ACH Transactions, and send it with your immigration application.

2. Credit, Debit or Prepaid Card

This option already existed, but now it is one of the main ways. It is very useful, especially if you do not have a U.S. bank account.

How do I use it? You must complete and sign Form G-1450, Credit Card Transaction Authorization, and include it in your application package.

The disappearing payment method

To make the system more secure and avoid problems such as mail theft (which has increased significantly), USCIS will phase out payments by personal checks and money orders.

Until when can I use them? You have until October 28, 2025 to pay with checks or money orders. After that date, they will no longer be accepted.

The reason is simple: more than 90% of payments were coming in this way, causing delays, losses and risk of fraud. The new digital system is much safer for everyone.

Important advice

Whether you pay by direct debit or card, there is one very important step you cannot forget: make sure you have enough money in your account or card before submitting your application.

If USCIS attempts to collect and the payment is rejected for lack of funds, your immigration application may be rejected completely and you will have to start the process all over again.

SOURCE: La Nación

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1.What if I do not have a U.S. bank account?

No problem! The best option for you is to use a credit card or prepaid debit card. You simply purchase a prepaid card, put the exact amount of the fee on it and fill out Form G-1450 to authorize payment.

2. Why is USCIS making this change?

Mainly for two reasons: security and efficiency. Electronic payments are 16 times less likely to be lost or stolen than checks. In addition, processing digital payments is much faster, which helps reduce case wait times.

3. Does Form G-1650 or G-1450 cost extra?

No. These forms are free and only serve to authorize USCIS to collect your processing fee. They do not have any additional cost.

4. Can I continue to pay by check until October 28, 2025?

Yes, USCIS will continue to accept checks and money orders until that date. However, they recommend you start using electronic methods because they are safer and faster for processing your case.

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